La Pine data center regulations could be a model for other communities
The La Pine City Council recently denied a proposed data center project in an industrial park. In response to public concern, a ballot measure is now being proposed in La Pine to establish specific noise, light, and reporting standards for data centers, including annual public reporting of electricity and water use. This proposed measure is highlighted as a potential model for other localities grappling with data center developments.
La Pine, Oregon, is at the forefront of a growing trend of local communities pushing back against data center developments. The La Pine City Council recently rejected a proposed data center within a local industrial park, citing public concerns.
Following this rejection, a new ballot measure is being proposed in La Pine that would establish specific operational standards for data centers. The measure seeks to limit nighttime site noise to 55 decibels, ensure lighting is shielded and downward-directed, and, notably, require annual public reporting of electricity use, water use, generator runtime, and full-time equivalent jobs.
While the noise and light restrictions are considered reasonable, the reporting requirements are seen as more sensitive, addressing public anxieties regarding data centers' high energy and water consumption, and their perceived low job creation. La Pine City Recorder Amanda Metcalf is currently calculating the number of signatures required to place the measure on the ballot, with proponents having two years to gather them.
The editorial suggests that this proactive approach by La Pine to establish clear regulations could serve as a model for other city and county governments grappling with the impacts of data center development.