Lee County Supervisors Discuss Data Center Ordinance Amid Public Opposition
The Lee County Board of Supervisors is holding public forums to craft a proactive ordinance regarding data centers and small nuclear power plants, facing strong citizen opposition. Residents voiced concerns about energy consumption, noise, and tax incentives, with some advocating for a moratorium or outright rejection of data centers. The board aims to finalize a draft ordinance by December.
The Lee County Board of Supervisors is actively crafting an ordinance to regulate data centers and the use of small nuclear power within the county. This initiative follows three public forums, including a recent meeting at the Heritage Center in Keokuk, where significant public opposition to data center development was evident.
Citizens at the forums raised numerous concerns, including the potential for an energy deficit due to data centers' high power demands, noise pollution affecting human and animal health, and the burden on taxpayers from proposed tax incentives for facilities like a Bitcoin mining operation near Fort Madison. Some speakers, like Jeff Kurtz, encouraged the supervisors to extend any moratorium on construction, while Ben Moser questioned if the county could simply ban data centers outright. Concerns about AI and the lack of local accountability for large companies were also expressed.
Supervisor Chair Ginger Knisley and Supervisor Garry Seyb acknowledged the public's sentiments. Seyb noted the county currently lacks zoning regulations, making it an attractive location for data centers, but questioned if the county should dictate private property use. Another supervisor, Chuck Holmes, mentioned the county is considering eliminating tax abatements due to new state property tax rules. The board plans to draft an ordinance and hold another public meeting before a final decision, with a goal to have something done by December.