Hallam neighbors fear proposed data center zoning change could open door to more development
Residents in Hallam, Nebraska, are concerned about Monolith's proposed data center and a related zoning change that would allow data centers as a permitted use in Industrial 2 zones. They fear impacts on noise, light, and water supply, and many support a moratorium on data center development. A meeting is scheduled for neighbors to hear from the company.
Neighbors in Hallam, Nebraska, are voicing significant concerns regarding a proposed data center development by Monolith. The company, which already operates a production facility in Hallam, intends to build a data center on its property. Residents living near the proposed site are worried about potential impacts, including noise and light pollution, and the effect on the local water supply.
A major point of contention is a proposed zoning change. Monolith is seeking to modify the Industrial 2 zoning classification to include data center usage as an automatically permitted use. Residents fear this change would broadly open the door for any Industrial 2 zoned property in Hallam to host a data center without specific oversight, rather than being a conditional use.
Many residents expressed support for implementing a moratorium on data center development. They believe a moratorium would provide time to establish appropriate zoning regulations for such facilities. Nebraska Governor Pillen's executive order regarding data centers was mentioned as a step in the right direction. Monolith is scheduled to hold a meeting on Thursday evening, and neighbors are eager to learn more about the proposed data center and voice their concerns directly to the company.