Gilbert delays data center regulations over concerns about smaller facilities
The Gilbert Town Council postponed adoption of new data center regulations until Dec. 15. The delay will give town staff more time to address concerns about smaller facilities, water use and rapidly changing technology.
The Gilbert Town Council voted 6-1 on Oct. 20 to delay consideration of sweeping amendments to the town’s land development code governing data centers. The council chose to continue the matter until Dec. 15, despite staff recommendations that the regulations be adopted immediately.
Councilmember Kenny Buckland cast the lone dissenting vote, saying Gilbert should enact stronger protections immediately and revise them as needed. The postponement reflects concerns about how the proposed rules would apply to smaller data center facilities, as well as water use and changes in data center technology.