2-1 vote sets 18-month data center moratorium for unincorporated Linn County
Linn County supervisors approved an 18-month moratorium on new data centers in unincorporated areas of the county by a 2-1 vote. The decision was driven by resident concerns over air pollution, power costs, and water usage. During this period, the county plans to conduct further research and gather more feedback from residents.
Linn County, Iowa, supervisors voted 2-1 to enact an 18-month moratorium on new data center developments in the county's unincorporated areas. Supervisors Kirsten Running-Marquardt and Brandy Meisheid supported the measure, citing resident feedback and concerns about air pollution, future power costs, and water as a critical natural resource. Meisheid specifically mentioned "lessons learned" from existing data center projects in Cedar Rapids and a need for more adequate information at a county-wide level before making further decisions.
Supervisor Sami Scheetz cast the sole dissenting vote, arguing that the comprehensive data center ordinance passed unanimously by the Board in February already provides strong protections. He highlighted provisions like an independent water study, a binding water use agreement, and the Board's authority to reject unsuitable projects, emphasizing its status as "the most comprehensive data center ordinance in Iowa."
During the 18-month moratorium, the supervisors intend to conduct further research on water quality and solicit additional feedback from residents. The Board retains the option to either extend or shorten the moratorium in the future.