Des Moines County Board Hears Public Concerns on Data Center Ordinance
The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors held a work session to gather public input on a proposed ordinance for AI data center development. Residents expressed concerns about electricity, water usage, noise, and tax exemptions, while a developer detailed a project using a closed-loop water system and existing electrical capacity. The board is working with the Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission to draft the ordinance.
The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors conducted a public work session to solicit feedback on a proposed ordinance aimed at regulating AI data center development within the county. Approximately 45 residents attended, with about a dozen offering comments ranging from specific ordinance suggestions to calls for an outright prohibition of data centers. Both Democratic and Republican candidates for the open Board of Supervisors seat, Bob Bartles and Brian Thie, participated in the discussion.
Charlie White, a land agent for Aurum Venture Capital, presented details about his company's plan to construct a data center on a 2-3 acre site near Highway 34, adjacent to an operational bitcoin mine. White stated the proposed data center would increase the total site's electrical usage to 15 megawatts and claimed sufficient capacity was available from an existing substation. However, Kenny Oleson of the Des Moines County Clean Energy District challenged this, arguing that increased demand would necessitate new infrastructure.
Public feedback included calls for the ordinance to mandate closed-loop cooling systems, developer-funded water purification, and on-site or contracted renewable energy offsets for electricity consumption. Residents also proposed requirements for substantial community betterment funds, 100% battery storage backup, and developer responsibility for grid and water infrastructure upgrades. Brian Thie advised caution, referencing Linn County's moratorium on data center ordinances, and advocated for legislative changes to eliminate property tax exemptions for data centers. The board will continue to work with the Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission on developing the ordinance.