Geronimo Power to seek alternative sites for data center
News ClipThe Globe | Worthington, Minnesota·Worthington, Nobles County, MN·4/22/2026
Nobles County commissioners voted 3-2 to deny a zoning text amendment that would have allowed data centers as a conditional use in agricultural preservation land. This decision upholds the planning commission's recommendation, prompting Geronimo Power to consider alternative sites for its proposed data center. The meeting saw significant community engagement and applause for the decision.
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Gov: Nobles County Board of Commissioners, Nobles County Planning Commission, Nobles County Government Center, Nobles County Planning and Zoning Administrator
The Nobles County Board of Commissioners recently voted 3-2 to uphold the planning commission's recommendation, denying a text amendment to the county's zoning ordinance. This amendment would have allowed data centers as a conditional use in the Agricultural Preservation District, effectively blocking Geronimo Power's current data center development plans for that specific type of land.
Commissioners Chris Dybevick and Robert Demuth opposed the motion, advocating for staff to explore alternative ordinance amendments. However, Commissioners Gene Metz, Justin Ahlers, and Bob Paplow voted against the amendment, citing strong opposition from constituents who emphasized Nobles County's agricultural identity. Commissioner Metz noted the