City of Ozark, Mo., passes an ordinance that imposes restrictions on data center development
Ozark’s Board of Aldermen unanimously approved ordinance changes imposing new requirements on data center development, including water- and energy-efficiency measures, noise monitoring, public reporting and neighborhood meetings. The city opted for regulations rather than a moratorium or outright ban.
The Ozark Board of Aldermen unanimously approved amendments to the city’s ordinance that add restrictions and transparency requirements for future data center developments. Developers would have to hold neighborhood meetings, monitor noise continuously, maintain a public website, disclose complaints and responses, and meet design requirements for efficient cooling systems.
The rules also address concerns about water consumption and electricity infrastructure by requiring developers to provide a utility analysis of a facility’s grid impact. Mayor Pro Tem Chris Aiken said Ozark chose regulatory safeguards instead of a moratorium or ban, which the city viewed as legally riskier. Resident Justin Wisdom supported the tougher requirements, citing concerns about data centers’ water use.