Is 200 feet enough? Some Johnson City residents worry about data center rules
Johnson City's Planning Commission is scheduled to take its first vote on new data center regulations, including a proposed 200-foot setback from residential properties. While resident advocates are largely content with the overall ordinance, some, like Dave Adams, express concerns that the 200-foot setback is insufficient for protecting the quality of life. The rules were drafted to be legally defensible and avoid an effective ban on data center development.
The Johnson City Planning Commission is scheduled to vote on new data center regulations. While the proposed ordinance addresses many concerns of residents advocating for stricter rules, one provision in particular—a 200-foot setback requirement from residential property lines—is drawing criticism for being insufficient.
Johnson City resident Dave Adams, part of a group advocating for increased protections, voiced his concern about the 200-foot distance, pointing out that adult-oriented businesses in Johnson City require a 1,000-foot setback from homes, churches, and schools. This advocacy group formed after the electric company Brightridge reportedly attempted to develop a data center near Adams's daughter's school.
Sylvan Bruni, who helped draft the new rules and is also a member of Adams's group, explained that the 200-foot figure was chosen to ensure the regulations are legally defensible and do not constitute an effective ban on data center development within the city. He clarified that the setback applies to property lines, not directly to homes, and noted the challenge of finding suitable heavy industrial properties that do not border residential zones while also meeting the 200-foot separation. Planning commissioners are expected to consider all aspects of the provisions during their meeting.