Monticello data center advances amid lingering questions
The Monticello Planning Commission voted 4-1 to recommend approval of three land-use applications for the proposed Edmonson Business Center data center, which could include up to 3 million square feet on nearly 550 acres. Residents raised concerns about noise, electricity and water use, infrastructure, property values and the unidentified future operator, while commissioners also recommended that the City Council explore a voluntary buyout program for nearby homeowners.
The Monticello Planning Commission recommended approval of a preliminary plat, rezoning and conditional use permit for the proposed Edmonson Business Center data center. Developer Monticello Tech LLC is seeking to build five to 10 buildings totaling as much as 3 million square feet on nearly 550 acres south of 85th Street NE and east of Highway 25. The project could require more than 500 megawatts of electricity and would be developed over four to eight years, but its eventual operator and equipment have not been identified.
The 4-1 vote followed a hearing attended by about 150 people, many of whom questioned potential noise, water consumption, power infrastructure, traffic, farmland loss and effects on home values. Commissioner Rick Kothenbeutel opposed the applications, while other commissioners said Monticello's data center ordinance and additional phase-by-phase reviews would provide safeguards. The commission separately voted 5-0 to recommend that the City Council consider a voluntary buyout program for nearby homeowners, though no program has yet been established.
The applications still require a final decision from the Monticello City Council, which had not scheduled a meeting by the article's publication. The city has adopted data center regulations, and future agreements would require financial security for roads, utilities and other infrastructure improvements.