Data center regulations in Bloomington
Bloomington has released a draft ordinance regulating hyperscale data centers, including limits on noise, vibrations, lighting, energy and water use, building size, and proximity to residential areas. The public will be able to comment at hearings before the city completes the rules ahead of the existing moratorium's Nov. 26 expiration.
The City of Bloomington released its first draft of regulations for hyperscale data centers, proposing limits on noise and vibrations, lighting, energy and water usage, building size and use, and a 1,000-foot setback from residential areas. The draft also says the city would not enter into nondisclosure agreements related to hyperscale data centers, addressing community concerns about transparency.
Residents will have opportunities to testify and suggest changes at public meetings scheduled for Oct. 16 and November. City officials said the draft could change based on public feedback. The final regulations must be completed before the city's data center moratorium expires Nov. 26; otherwise, the Bloomington City Council may need to consider extending it, as Normal previously did.