‘We have to get this right’: Dubuque County supervisors to consider data center moratorium
The Dubuque County Board of Supervisors is set to consider a four-month moratorium on data centers at an upcoming meeting. This action follows a large turnout of concerned residents at a recent planning and zoning commission meeting, where citizens expressed fears about data center development in rural areas. Supervisors are aiming to gain more time to develop proper ordinances for such projects.
The Dubuque County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to consider a four-month moratorium on data center construction at a special meeting on Tuesday. This decision comes after approximately 500 people attended a Dubuque County Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, either in person or virtually, to voice their concerns about data center development.
Supervisors Chair Harley Potthoff noted that some residents reported companies already talking to neighbors about purchasing land for data centers, prompting him to seek more time for the county to develop appropriate regulations. Rural Dubuque County resident Mike Wolter expressed significant apprehension, stating he fears a data center could soon be built near his home without a moratorium. Wolter believes the proposed 120-day moratorium is insufficient to properly address the complex issues surrounding data centers.
Potthoff agrees, advocating for a moratorium of at least six months. He aims for this extended period to allow the county to hold town hall meetings, gather public input, and develop a comprehensive ordinance. While Potthoff acknowledges potential property tax revenue from data centers, he prioritizes the health and well-being of county residents, raising concerns about water usage and noise pollution.