Ames seeks applicants for data center study committee
The City of Ames is forming a committee to study the environmental impacts of data centers. This committee will evaluate research and provide findings to the Ames City Council, which is reviewing potential zoning, ordinance, and noise regulations for data centers on city-owned land. The council had previously delayed a data center project until May 2027 to allow for this comprehensive review.
The City of Ames, Iowa, is establishing a study committee to investigate the environmental impacts of data centers as it moves forward with considering new regulations. The Ames City Council approved the formation of this committee on Tuesday, following its decision to delay consideration of a specific data center project near the Ames Municipal Airport until May 2027. This delay allows the city to conduct a thorough review of potential zoning, ordinance, and noise regulations for data center developments.
The newly formed committee will focus on critical issues such as heat generation, localized temperature increases, and the potential effects on local wildlife habitats and human health. Committee members are tasked with reviewing published research and compiling reliable resources that offer diverse perspectives for the council. Iowa State student representative Trey Anderson noted that the committee provides a valuable opportunity for university students to engage in the city's review process.
Applications for the committee opened Wednesday and will close on September 9. Ward 1 Representative Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, Ward 3 Representative Gloria Betcher, and Trey Anderson will screen applicants before the full council grants its final approval. The committee is slated to hold its first meeting by September 30, with initial research findings due by December 31, and a final report to the council by February 28. This report will present the committee's findings without offering recommendations on specific actions for the city to take regarding data centers.