Linn County supervisors to discuss moratorium on new data center projects
The Linn County Board of Supervisors will vote on a resolution to implement a moratorium on new data center applications until January 1, 2028. Concerns include high electrical and water consumption, as well as potential long-term impacts. The board aims to use this time to gather more information and evaluate the effects of data centers, with a proposed Google data center in the area noted as a point of discussion.
The Linn County Board of Supervisors in Iowa is scheduled to vote Wednesday on a resolution to enact a moratorium on new data center applications. The proposed halt in new development would last until January 1, 2028, with the option for the board to extend it further.
The resolution cites concerns regarding the significant electrical and water consumption associated with data centers, as well as their potential long-term environmental and community impacts. The board intends to use the moratorium period to evaluate these issues and gather additional technical information and regional planning insights before accepting new applications.
Local discussions have included a proposed Google data center near the former Duane Arnold Power Plant, highlighting the immediate relevance of the board's decision to ongoing development interests in the county.