P&Z Commission discusses initial draft of proposed data center regulations -
The Marshalltown Planning and Zoning Commission discussed the initial draft of proposed data center regulations, focusing on issues like noise, water and power usage, and setbacks. A key discussion point was whether to establish a dedicated data center overlay zoning district or permit facilities under existing industrial zones. The commission is also considering whether to extend an ongoing moratorium on data center development, which is set to expire in late November.
The Marshalltown Planning and Zoning Commission held a work session to review the initial draft of a potential ordinance for data center regulations, presented by City Zoning Administrator Clayton Ender. The commission, with two members absent and one new member seated, spent approximately two hours discussing the comprehensive proposal.
Key concerns addressed in the draft include noise levels, water and power consumption, as well as necessary setbacks and buffering requirements. Ender clarified that large-scale data center developments would necessitate a master development plan review and public hearings, moving beyond simple administrative oversight. A significant unresolved question is whether the city will introduce a specific data center overlay zoning district or if these facilities will be permitted under general industrial, public institution, and general commercial zoning categories. Rezoning requests would go to the city council, while other decisions would rest with the Board of Adjustment based on P&Z Commission recommendations.
Regarding noise, the draft aligns largely with existing city ordinances for industrial users, with an emphasis on low-frequency hums and restricting backup generators to emergency use. Chairman Jon Boston stressed the importance of data centers connecting to the electrical grid, with strict conditions for any exemptions allowing them to dig their own wells or produce onsite power. While there are no hard caps on electricity or water usage, Marshalltown Water Works' supply capacity would be a limiting factor.
The regulations stipulate that noise-generating units must be at least 300 feet from residential areas. The city is currently under a moratorium on data center development set to expire in late November, with a 60-day extension pending a council vote. Ender expressed optimism about the draft, noting that a public open house is scheduled for October 1st, followed by a special work session on October 8th, before a decision on public hearings or further moratorium extension is made.