Yankton County Debates Data Center Moratorium
The Yankton County Commission debated a proposed temporary moratorium on data centers following inquiries from A1 Development Solutions about potential sites for an AI data center. The commission heard strong opposition regarding water usage, strain on the electrical grid, and limited local job creation, as well as support for economic development. Commissioners acknowledged the need to amend zoning regulations but postponed a decision.
The Yankton County Commission held a meeting to discuss a proposed temporary moratorium on data centers, drawing a capacity crowd. Commissioner Ryan Heine drafted a resolution for a 12-month moratorium on facilities exceeding 250 kWh, citing the need for the county to review information and amend its zoning regulations, which he stated are not currently equipped for data centers. He also raised concerns about potential impacts but clarified he wasn't seeking a complete ban.
Other commissioners, John Marquardt and Dan Klimisch, expressed concerns about the time a task force would take, suggesting the county's planning commission handle the study instead. Marquardt and Don Kettering also emphasized the importance of remaining open to economic development, including data centers, to expand the county's tax base and avoid budget deficits.
Drew O’Brien of A1 Development Solutions, representing an unnamed company interested in a 10-20 megawatt AI data center, confirmed making inquiries about Yankton County sites but stated no firm proposal exists yet. He detailed the potential project, including a closed-loop utility infrastructure, low noise levels, a need for 10-20 acres, no requests for financial incentives, and the creation of 8-20 full-time jobs. A NorthWestern Energy spokesman also assured the utility would protect existing customers.
However, numerous audience members voiced strong opposition, citing concerns about water usage in a drought-prone area, strain on local electrical grids, potential increases in utility rates, minimal local job creation, and negative environmental impacts. Opponents urged the commissioners to pass a moratorium to allow for proper study and the enactment of necessary zoning requirements. The commissioners decided to continue research, disagreeing on the method (task force vs. planning commission), and will require a special meeting for any potential decisions on taxes or new regulations.