St. Louis County residents push back on proposed data center zoning rules

St. Louis County's Planning Department introduced proposed zoning regulations for data centers in unincorporated areas, following similar discussions in St. Louis city. The rules aim to designate specific zones for data centers, prohibiting them in residential, flood plain, park, and retail areas, while permitting them in heavy commercial and industrial zones. They also include requirements for energy, light, and sound, and classify data centers by size and energy consumption.

During a public hearing, residents vehemently opposed the proposals, with a strong majority (15 against, 3 in favor) calling for a complete ban or a long-term moratorium on data center developments. Concerns primarily focused on high energy and water usage, environmental impact, noise, and light pollution. County resident Matt Hutchinson specifically called for a ban or moratorium to allow for more robust regulations, while Teresa Thevary, a former Missouri Department of Natural Resources employee, argued the proposed regulations were inadequate for environmental protection.

Conversely, Avery Frank from the Show-Me Institute, a conservative think tank, advocated for balancing the negative impacts with potential benefits like significant tax revenue that could lower overall tax rates. He also suggested the county avoid offering tax incentives to maintain these benefits. Principal Planner Mary Kennedy confirmed the department received approximately 90 emails, mostly from residents expressing concerns over utility rate increases and environmental impacts.

The Planning Department plans to consider public feedback and expects to re-present the updated rules next month to the Planning Commission before they proceed to the County Council for a final vote. Public comments can be submitted via email until August 31.