Minnehaha County looks to task force to study data center regulations
Minnehaha County planning officials are forming a task force to study rules and conditions for potential data center developments. The effort will examine impacts involving electricity, water, noise and nearby communities, while some Sioux Falls residents oppose future data centers.
Minnehaha County planning officials are assembling a task force with expertise in water, telecommunications, economic development, technology and design to help develop expectations for potential data center proposals. Planning Commission Chair Bonnie Duffy and Planning Director Scott Anderson said the county wants to establish a thoughtful framework before an application is submitted, rather than respond after a project is proposed.
Potential task force participants include water, communications, economic development, technology and design professionals. The review follows broader debate over data centers' effects on utility costs, electricity availability, water use and noise, as well as South Dakota legislation addressing potential utility impacts. Sioux Falls resident Rifat Hussain voiced opposition to data centers, while officials said the task force has not yet formally begun and may provide recommendations within several months.