Clinton data center ordinance advances to City Council
A draft data center ordinance is advancing to the Clinton City Council for review. Developer QTS plans to build a data center on 1100 acres, prompting concerns from homeowners regarding pollution and resource consumption. The City Council will have the final say on the ordinance, while opponents continue to advocate for stricter regulations and a slower process.
A proposed data center ordinance for Clinton, Iowa, has been advanced by the city's Planning Commission to the Clinton City Council. This development comes as QTS, a data center developer, plans to construct a facility on 1100 acres on the west side of town. The project has sparked significant debate, with local homeowners expressing concerns over potential pollution, noise, and resource consumption, particularly regarding water and electricity usage. Conversely, city and economic development leaders are anticipating property tax revenue and job creation for the area.
During its last meeting, the Planning Commission faced considerable public opposition, with approximately 200 residents attending to voice their desire to keep data centers out of their city. Mike Malloy, an attorney representing 30 Clinton homeowners, criticized the lack of public comment opportunities at the meeting and cited a seven-page memorandum from the city attorney that offers legal language to incorporate residents' concerns. This document also rates provisions, with a top recommendation for the city to hire independent consultants for studies rather than relying on developers to hire their own.
Homeowners are advocating for specific amendments to the ordinance, including larger setbacks for data centers and lower noise limits, though these could potentially hinder development. Malloy indicated that his clients plan to present these concerns to the City Council and request a slower review process. The City Council retains the ultimate authority to determine which provisions are included in or excluded from the final ordinance.