‘We are not recruiting data centers’: Irondale mayor says data center ordinance is precaution
Irondale officials are preparing an ordinance regulating potential future data centers, despite the mayor saying the city is not recruiting any such facilities. The proposed rules would address power and water use, noise, environmental concerns and require developers to present plans to the City Council before approval.
Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart Jr. said the city has no data center projects under consideration and is not actively seeking developers. However, officials have spent seven months drafting precautionary regulations in case a proposal is submitted.
The ordinance would establish standards for electricity and water consumption, noise protections and developer presentations before the council. Resident Terri Michal urged officials to proceed carefully, citing potential effects on nearby homes and schools, as well as environmental and noise concerns. The measure is scheduled for a Dec. 15 vote with public comment.