Palo City Council approves new EU-1 data center zoning district on final reading
The Palo City Council has given final approval to a new EU-1 data center zoning district, creating a framework for future data center development. This move follows an approach from Google about potentially building a data center near the Duane Arnold nuclear site. The new ordinance allows the city to set terms and protect the community for any future projects.
The Palo City Council, following a 4-to-1 vote on Monday night, officially approved a new zoning district, establishing a Data Center Exclusive Use District. This ordinance aims to empower Palo leaders to dictate terms, safeguard the community, and ensure any future data center development adheres to rules set by the city.
This decision comes after Google reportedly approached the city regarding a potential data center project near the Duane Arnold nuclear site. Council members stated they spent months researching how other communities manage large-scale data center projects, including site visits and consultations with host communities, to develop a "strong, protective, community-focused ordinance."
Council member Doug Hanover cast the sole dissenting vote but did not elaborate on his decision during the meeting. While community concerns were raised throughout the process, council members believe these can be addressed through a future development agreement rather than the zoning ordinance itself. With the third and final reading now approved, the new zoning district is officially integrated into Palo's zoning code, setting the framework for any subsequent data center development.