Albertville City Council hears data center concept, approves preliminary tax levy
The Albertville City Council reviewed a concept for a modular data center proposed by Nodiac Oakwood, which would require a city code amendment as it is not currently allowed. Discussions included concerns about electricity and water usage, with Nodiac emphasizing a low-impact design that would truck in its own water and require 20 megawatts of power. No formal action was taken during the concept review.
The Albertville City Council conducted a concept review for a proposed modular data center from Nodiac Oakwood, a preliminary step where the council provides feedback without making a formal decision. City Planner TJ Hofer presented the proposal, noting that the 3.66-acre site, located at 70th Street and Karment Avenue northeast, is adjacent to a Wright-Hennepin electrical substation.
Hofer highlighted that current city code does not permit such a use, and a code amendment or preliminary unit development would be required. He also noted a general public disfavor toward "hyperscale" data centers due to concerns about water, electricity, and noise, though Nodiac's proposal was described as "low impact by design." Eric Shannon, Nodiac's Director of Development, stated the facility would be unmanned, generate minimal traffic, have no odor, and use 30,000 gallons of water over a five to eight-year cycle, which would be trucked in and out. The data center would require 20 megawatts of power, and Nodiac confirmed it would not proceed without assurance of power availability from Wright-Hennepin. The council did not take any formal action but is slated to meet again on September 21.