Supervisors discuss six-month data center moratorium, plan to vote on resolution at next meeting
Marshall County supervisors are discussing a proposed six-month moratorium on data center construction, with a vote planned for their next meeting on September 23. This follows a unanimous recommendation from the county's Zoning Commission. The county is also planning future work sessions to develop a new, more permanent data center ordinance.
The Marshall County Board of Supervisors in Iowa is preparing to vote on a proposed six-month moratorium on data center construction during its upcoming meeting on September 23. This initiative follows a unanimous recommendation from the Marshall County Zoning Commission.
During a recent meeting, Board Chairman Jarret Heil emphasized the need for officials to be proactive, stating that the county does not want to be "caught flat-footed" given ongoing data center developments elsewhere in Iowa. Zoning Administrator Tyler Kelley explained that the proposed moratorium document has removed references to "large scale," simplifying the temporary halt. County Attorney Jordan Gaffney advised the board to adopt the moratorium as a resolution, which would take effect immediately, rather than an ordinance, which requires a longer process.
In parallel with the temporary moratorium, the Zoning Commission is planning three work sessions to develop a comprehensive data center ordinance, with a draft expected for public discussion by January 2027. Public comments largely supported the moratorium, with citizens like Maggie Valentine and Harold Lanning praising the board's foresight. Currently, Marshall County has two operational Bitcoin mining facilities, and new construction for such facilities would be covered by the proposed moratorium. The resolution, if passed, would remain in effect until March 23, 2027, unless extended or shortened.