Jonesborough board amends data center ordinance and discusses fiscal year budgeting

The Jonesborough Board of Mayor and Aldermen convened to discuss two main topics: stricter data center regulations and the town's proposed 2026 budget. Earlier this month, the board passed the first reading of an ordinance designed to strengthen rules for data processing centers. On Monday night, the board voted to amend this ordinance during its second reading. The revised ordinance establishes a 1,500-foot buffer, prohibiting data centers from being built within this distance of any residential structure in Jonesborough. Mayor Kelly Wolfe stated that these changes effectively halt new data center development in town under the current zoning, though future rezoning could potentially allow them after extensive deliberation. Town leaders assert the ordinance aims to protect residents' environment while leaving room for future development proposals. The public comment period saw residents question specific language in the ordinance, particularly concerning the vague wording around vibration and noise standards. One commenter sought clarification on what constitutes "human sense feeling" regarding perceptible vibrations. Alongside the data center discussion, the board also approved the first reading of the proposed 2026 budget, which Mayor Wolfe described as fiscally responsible and supportive of the town's continued growth. The data center ordinance is now in effect, while the 2026 budget still requires another reading before final approval.