Gilbert debates tough data center regulations
Gilbert planning staff has proposed stricter data center regulations, including specific zoning, setbacks, and a ban on potable water for cooling. The Town Council is debating these amendments, with some members advocating for even tougher rules on water and electricity use, and a vote is anticipated in early September.
Gilbert, Arizona, is currently debating significant amendments to its land development code to impose stricter regulations on data center construction and operation. The planning staff's proposals include limiting data centers to Light Industrial and General Industrial zones, enforcing a 650-foot setback from residential areas, and prohibiting the use of potable water for cooling systems. These measures aim to address concerns over high power and water consumption in the arid state.
During a recent study session, several council members expressed a desire for even tougher restrictions. Councilman Monte Lyons and Jim Torgeson emphasized the strain data centers place on critical resources, suggesting mandatory closed-loop cooling systems using glycol instead of water and questioning the use of the town's reclaimed water, which is essential for aquifer recharge. Councilwoman Bobbi Buchli advocated against allowing data centers any access to Gilbert's water resources, while Councilwoman Yung Koprowski proposed a cap on water and power usage.
A key point of contention is the permitting process. Staff proposed changing from conditional use permits (requiring council approval) to special use permits, which would allow the Planning Commission to make final decisions without direct council oversight for projects within specific industrial zones. Councilman Chuck Bongiovanni voiced strong concerns, calling this a "dangerous loophole" that could enable large data centers to be built without council review. He also requested staff to explore an ordinance that would mandate council approval for all data center projects and to provide an economic analysis of the benefits these facilities bring.
Despite calls for stricter controls, Mayor Scott Anderson urged caution, suggesting the ordinance should remain flexible to accommodate smaller, specialized data centers that might integrate into other uses and avoid inadvertently prohibiting beneficial development. The Town Council is expected to vote on the proposed amendments on either September 1 or September 15, following further staff work on economic data and legal feasibility of mandating council approval.