Planning Commission approves data center amendment, State of Franklin parking proposal
The Johnson City Planning Commission approved an amendment to data center regulations, focusing on noise and vibration, despite resident concerns about the 200-foot setback. The amendment passed 4-2, with commissioners acknowledging the need for further review and public input.
The Johnson City Planning Commission recently voted 4-2 to approve an amendment regarding data center regulations, specifically addressing concerns about noise and vibrations. The amendment, while seen as a step forward by many, faced criticism from residents and some commissioners who felt the proposed 200-foot setback from residential areas was insufficient.
Residents expressed concerns about the noise levels from hundreds of servers, suggesting a need for continuous monitoring at the property line close to residential use, funded by the facility. Commissioner Laura Kelly voted against the amendment, seeking further clarification on the setback distance and advocating for a greater distance, which would require additional collaboration with the city's legal department and staff.
Conversely, Commissioner Whitney Getz highlighted that the amendment establishes noise and vibration regulations and mandates that any entity wishing to establish a data center must go through the Board of Zoning Appeals and a public process. Despite the non-unanimous vote, it was clarified that this is not the final word, and the city staff remains open to community input for future reflections and adjustments to the text amendment.