Walford rejects data center annexation request, citing infrastructure concerns
Walford city leaders rejected an annexation request for a potential data center, citing concerns over infrastructure and the protection of their small community. Separately, Linn County supervisors enacted an 18-month moratorium on data centers and passed an ordinance for impact reviews. Residents in the area are worried about traffic, water use, and the overall impact on their communities.
Walford, Iowa, city leaders declined a site selector's request in April to annex land for a potential data center, according to Mayor Randy Bauer. Bauer stated the city was not interested in accommodating such a large project, citing limited resources and an inability to manage its scale and regulations.
Simultaneously, Linn County supervisors enacted an 18-month moratorium on data center developments and passed a new ordinance requiring water studies and impact reviews for traffic, construction, and noise. Supervisor Sami Scheetz voted against the moratorium. Walford itself considered a moratorium but decided against it, as no suitable land is available within city limits and annexation requests can be denied.
Residents near Walford, including Josie Schmuecker, expressed significant concerns about the increasing number of data center proposals across eastern Iowa. Schmuecker, who moved to Walford for its quiet, small-town atmosphere, fears a data center would "destroy a town" and goes against her reasons for living there. Mayor Bauer noted Walford is collaborating with Linn County on a Fringe Area Agreement to ensure the city's input on developments outside its municipal boundaries.