New data center rules in Marana head to the town council
Marana's planning commission unanimously recommended stricter data center rules covering noise limits, low-frequency sound and the process for shutting down facilities. The proposed code changes will go before the Marana Town Council at a public hearing on October 20, amid criticism from some residents and council member-elect Jackie Maguire.
The Marana Planning Commission unanimously recommended amendments to the town's data center regulations. The changes would establish additional noise limits, including restrictions on low-frequency sounds that may be felt but not heard, and would create a 12-month timeline for decommissioning and shutting down a data center, with possible extensions.
Council member-elect Jackie Maguire and other public commenters criticized the town's existing approach and called for stronger safeguards, including limits on generator operating hours. Commission member John Flint said the proposed decommissioning provisions reflect the town's effort to strengthen its rules as it gains more experience. The recommendations will advance to the Marana Town Council, which has scheduled a public hearing for October 20.