Despite putting ordinance in place, Linn County passes data center moratorium
The Linn County Board of Supervisors in Iowa has passed an 18-month moratorium on data centers, despite having approved a data center ordinance in February. Supervisors cited a lack of sufficient information and transparency from data center companies regarding water, power, and costs as reasons for the decision. One supervisor voted against it, arguing the existing ordinance provides enough protection and the moratorium could drive development to less regulated areas.
After three hours of public comment and discussion, the Linn County Board of Supervisors voted two to one to pass a new 18-month moratorium on data centers. The meeting on Wednesday morning was standing room only, with many residents speaking on the proposed measure.
Supervisor Brandy Meisheid, who introduced the issue, stated that local elected officials lack sufficient information to make sound decisions about data centers. Board Chair Kirsten Running-Marquardt echoed this, asserting that data center and power plant companies have not adequately answered public questions regarding water, power, and costs, hindering transparency.
Conversely, Supervisor Sami Scheetz, who voted against the moratorium, argued that the county's data center ordinance, approved in February, already provides adequate protections. Scheetz expressed concern that the moratorium could inadvertently push data center projects towards cities with fewer regulations, undermining efforts to protect the region.
Supporters of the moratorium hope it will allow the board time to revise its existing ordinance, noting the board's ability to adjust the 18-month period if needed.