Van Buren approves data center rules, advances $45 million bond plans
The Van Buren City Council unanimously approved new regulations for data centers before any formal project has been proposed in the city. The rules limit facilities to industrial zoning districts, require 1,000-foot residential setbacks, impose noise limits and require development review that includes utility-capacity information.
The Van Buren City Council voted 6-0 to adopt regulations governing future data center development. The ordinance limits facilities to Industrial-2 zoning districts, requires a 1,000-foot separation from areas allowing residential development, establishes daytime and nighttime noise limits, and requires development-plan review and information about utility capacity.
Mayor Joe Hurst said the city has received preliminary inquiries from prospective data center companies, but none has advanced to a formal proposal. Planning Director Wally Bailey said the rules were developed after reviewing regulations in other Arkansas cities and reflect concerns about noise, setbacks, power generation and compatibility with existing industrial uses.