Nashville Planning Commission advances data center bills ahead of council public hearing

The Metro Nashville Planning Commission has advanced two data center bills to the Metro Council, with public hearings scheduled for July 7. These legislative efforts aim to address ongoing community opposition to data centers, particularly following proposals for controversial developments near the Nashville Zoo and on the Fisk University campus.

One bill, sponsored by Metro Council Planning and Zoning Committee Chair Rollin Horton, seeks to establish comprehensive zoning rules for data centers, which are currently absent from Metro code. These proposed regulations would prohibit the largest data centers in Davidson County and restrict others from sensitive locations like schools and hospitals, also requiring a zoning exception and public hearing for permits. Horton emphasized his desire to ban emissions-causing power generation at data center sites.

A second bill, introduced by Metro Council member Courtney Johnston, proposes a moratorium on new data center permits. This moratorium would remain in effect until the new regulations, such as those in Horton's bill, are officially established. Johnston described her bill as an "insurance policy" to prevent new developments while permanent rules are being finalized.

DC Blox representative Doug Sloan argued that his company's proposed project near the zoo is "vested," meaning new regulations should not apply, as they had already applied for a building permit. He contended that the legislation is "driven by fear and not facts," while the Nashville Zoo, a vocal opponent, is considering legal action.