Machesney Park looks at data center rules
The Village of Machesney Park, Illinois, is developing new regulations for data center development, despite not having any current proposals. The proposed rules will require special use permits, public meetings, and confirmation of utility capacity for future projects. This proactive approach aims to address potential concerns from residents regarding utility use and neighborhood impact.
The Village of Machesney Park in Winnebago County, Illinois, is proactively considering new regulations for data center developments, even without any current proposals in the community. Village officials decided to strengthen oversight due to concerns voiced by citizens in other communities regarding the high electric power and water usage of such facilities.
The village's Planning and Zoning Commission is scheduled to review the proposed regulations at its meeting on Monday, July 27. The amendment would restrict data centers to industrial zoning districts and require a Special Use Permit. Developers would also need to hold a public meeting with residents and provide documentation from water, wastewater, and electric utilities confirming sufficient capacity before submitting an application.
Machesney Park Mayor Steve Johnson stated that the village is pro-development but acknowledges residents' concerns about data center impacts. The proposed rules also include a 1,000-foot setback from residential properties and a 20-foot landscaping buffer for noise mitigation. This move follows similar proactive stances in Wisconsin, where Green County recently enacted a 12-month moratorium on data center developments, joining Dane, Dodge, Door, and Manitowoc counties which have implemented moratoriums ranging from one to two years.