Barron County Committee Discusses Proposed Data Center Moratorium
The Barron County Executive Committee discussed a proposed temporary moratorium on data center development ahead of an Oct. 19 County Board agenda. Members differed over whether a moratorium would provide time to create a zoning ordinance or create confusion, while county staff said any proposal received before passage would be treated like other structures.
The Barron County Executive Committee discussed whether the county should impose a temporary moratorium on data center development while officials work on a zoning ordinance. County Administrator Jeff French said some members favor a moratorium, but committee member Randy Cook argued that the county should complete the ordinance instead because a short-term pause could confuse the public.
Committee Chairman Louie Okey said a moratorium would allow the county to address concerns while drafting rules. The proposal is scheduled for discussion by the Barron County Board on Oct. 19, while the Zoning Committee continues work on an ordinance. Land Services Director Ben Cole said a data center proposal submitted before any moratorium would be handled like any other structure.