Dubuque County residents push for stronger long-term limits on data centers
Residents in Dubuque County, Iowa, are urging the Board of Supervisors to implement stronger, long-term limits on data center development. During a public comment session, citizens expressed concerns about the potential impact on local resources and advocated for the finalization of a permanent ordinance, complementing the existing 12-month moratorium.
Residents of Dubuque County, Iowa, are actively advocating for more robust, long-term protections against data center development, urging the Board of Supervisors to finalize permanent regulations. During a recent Board meeting's public comment session, citizens voiced concerns beyond the county's already approved 12-month moratorium, which was enacted in May.
Speakers highlighted potential negative impacts on local resources such as water and land, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive ordinance. One resident, identified as Walter, expressed surprise that the moratorium's removal was not a "slam dunk" and requested the board to accept the current moratorium language. He argued that approving the existing moratorium would provide residents with peace of mind and allow the county to focus on drafting permanent regulations. Walter concluded by asking the board to "remove the doubt" and enable the community to begin creating an ordinance they could "all live with" by the following week.