SE Iowa data center discussions underway as counties work toward ordinances
Two counties in southeast Iowa, Wapello and Jefferson, are proactively working to establish data center ordinances to manage future development. While Wapello County has ruled out a moratorium, both counties aim to have regulations in place soon, with Jefferson County expressing specific concerns about agricultural land preservation and water resource protection for the Jordan Aquifer.
Officials in Wapello and Jefferson Counties, located in southeast Iowa, are actively developing data center ordinances ahead of any formal proposals from developers. Wapello County Supervisor Bryan Ziegler stated his county is working towards an ordinance, viewing data centers as an economic opportunity, and has ruled out a moratorium to avoid deterring developers. Ziegler emphasized the need for clear rules to set facility boundaries, especially after Alliant Energy confirmed inquiries from businesses about energy availability in the Ottumwa area.
Meanwhile, Jefferson County Supervisor Lee Dimmitt reported that an ordinance has been drafted, though his county is proceeding with caution. Dimmitt explained that Jefferson County lacks existing zoning regulations, which necessitates developing a foundational ordinance before a moratorium could even be considered. The Jefferson County board aims to finalize its data center ordinance by the end of August. Dimmitt highlighted concerns for agricultural land, noting its irreversible loss once paved, and expressed alarm over the potential impact on the Jordan Aquifer, a critical water source for Iowa. Both supervisors underscored the urgency of establishing regulations despite no developers having formally approached their counties yet.