Knisley wants to expedite data center talk

Lee County Supervisor Chair Ginger Knisley is advocating for an expedited process to establish new county code regarding data centers. This initiative follows a moratorium enacted in June and heightened public interest surrounding a proposed data center near Fort Madison and other potential projects. Knisley aims to finalize the new regulations before the end of the year, emphasizing the need for broad public input.

During a recent meeting, Knisley reported receiving diverse feedback from citizens, including both support and opposition for data center developments. While a prior public meeting saw a smaller turnout than anticipated, the county plans to hold three new town hall meetings in Donnellson, Keokuk, and Fort Madison in September to facilitate public conversation before drafting an ordinance. Once a draft is prepared, three additional town halls will be held for further discussion.

The Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission is assisting the county in developing the draft language, despite expressing some reservations about the tight timeline. Additionally, Alliant Energy has sought involvement in the process, and the county has retained Brown Winick Law Firm of Des Moines to navigate legal aspects related to data centers and other economic development projects.