Dubuque County votes to pause data centers for 12 months
The Dubuque County Board of Supervisors approved a 12-month moratorium on data centers after a public meeting where residents expressed concerns. The board voted 2-1 for the longer pause, overturning an initial proposal for a 120-day moratorium.
The Dubuque County Board of Supervisors in Iowa has approved a 12-month moratorium on new data center developments. The decision, made during a Tuesday meeting, came after significant public input, with many residents expressing concerns and advocating for a longer pause than the initially proposed 120 days.
Board members, including Walter, cited a perceived lack of transparency regarding developer actions and emphasized the need to address community concerns. The board ultimately voted 2-1 in favor of the 12-month moratorium. Board member Wayne Kenniker, who voted against the measure, stated his support for a moratorium but wanted more time to review the document's wording, stressing the importance of listening to county residents over out-of-state developers. This meeting was prompted by public concerns raised at a previous Dubuque County zoning commission meeting.