Why Dubuque County is rethinking its data center ban plan
The Dubuque County Board of Supervisors has decided to shelve a proposed total ban on data centers and will instead focus on developing a data center ordinance. The county is currently operating under a data center moratorium while this ordinance is being drafted. An informational meeting on the topic is scheduled for this week.
The Dubuque County Board of Supervisors announced during a recent work session that they are abandoning plans for a total ban on data centers, opting instead to develop a comprehensive data center ordinance. This decision follows earlier discussions this year about potentially prohibiting data centers entirely. Supervisor Ann McDonough noted that while a ban remains legally possible, postponing it makes more financial sense.
Other supervisors also voiced concerns that a complete ban would not be as effective as a well-crafted ordinance in protecting both the county and its residents. One supervisor stated, "The ban on a specific industry is somewhat bypassing responsibilities. And by that I mean, you know, today it's a data center, tomorrow what's the next business?" This sentiment highlights the board's preference for a regulatory framework over an outright prohibition.
Currently, Dubuque County is operating under a data center moratorium as leaders work to establish the new ordinance. The supervisors are scheduled to hold an informational meeting on the topic this Wednesday in Peosta.