Dubuque County weighs data center health and pollution risks
Dubuque County supervisors are discussing a new ordinance for data centers, focusing on potential health effects from light pollution, as well as concerns about water and land usage. The county's board of health presented information on light pollution's impact on health, while residents voiced their desire for protections.
The Dubuque County Board of Supervisors is actively developing a new ordinance to regulate data centers, with a particular focus on potential health and environmental risks. During a recent bi-weekly work session, supervisors heard from the county's Board of Health regarding pollution concerns. Board of Health Chair Kathy Doulter presented information on the health impacts of light pollution, citing studies that link artificial light at night to various illnesses such as Alzheimer's, cancer, diabetes, and hypertension, noting these studies are based on general light pollution, not specifically from data centers.
Residents, including Mike Walter, have also expressed concerns about water and land usage by potential data centers. Walter emphasized the desire to protect existing properties from negative impacts. The supervisors indicated they want thorough research on water usage by data centers. The next discussion on this matter is scheduled for September 22nd at NIC in Dubuque.