Data center ordinance passes 4-1 after tense, high-stakes meeting

After months of heated debate and community division, the Monticello City Council voted 4-1 to approve a new Data Center Planned Unit Development (DCPUD) ordinance on April 27. Council member Charlotte Gabler cast the lone dissenting vote. The decision was met with scattered "nay" votes and visible frustration from dozens of residents present, many wearing "Stop the Monticello Data Centers" shirts, underscoring ongoing opposition. During the nearly three-hour meeting, council members, including Tracy Hinz, acknowledged the political weight of the decision, stating it was based on the city's best interests rather than personal political consequences. Mayor Lloyd Hilgart noted the nine-month process of developing the ordinance, which he described as a "moratorium by default," and stressed that future project costs would be borne by developers. Key amendments adopted included increased setbacks for data centers from residential areas, intended to mitigate impacts like noise, lighting, and visual scale. City Administrator Rachel Leonard clarified that the ordinance provides a framework, giving the council control without guaranteeing project approval. Public comments reiterated concerns about water usage, environmental risks, agricultural land preservation, and quality of life. Opponents, like Jenna Van Den Boom and Lisa Keenan, expressed disappointment with the vote but vowed to continue their efforts. The ordinance now allows developers, including Monticello Tech, to formally submit proposals, which will trigger further public hearings and council review.