Hutchinson drafts regulations for future data center proposals
Hutchinson is drafting regulations for future data center proposals, including limits on where facilities can be built, water-efficient cooling requirements and noise limits. The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Nov. 10 before the rules go to the City Council for consideration.
The Hutchinson Planning Commission reviewed draft regulations intended to guide future data center development in the city. The proposed rules would address potential impacts by requiring water-efficient cooling systems and setting noise limits of 60 decibels during the day and 50 decibels at night, measured at a facility’s property line.
The draft distinguishes smaller standalone data centers from server rooms supporting another business. Hutchinson resident and former business owner Casey Schwartz said smaller operations should not automatically face the same requirements as large facilities and suggested regulating projects based partly on electricity use and power demand. A public hearing is scheduled for Nov. 10, followed by consideration by the Hutchinson City Council.