Aurora discusses new data center regulations

The Aurora City Council is scheduled to discuss and potentially approve new regulations governing data centers in the city. The proposed measures aim to protect residents and the environment by setting requirements and limits on noise, vibration, water, and energy consumption, as well as establishing a clear definition and conditional use for data centers under existing warehouse zoning. Residents like Bryan Castro, who lives near an Aurora data center, have voiced significant concerns over constant noise, reaching up to 63 decibels, and vibrations causing cracks in his drywall, describing the feeling as an "earthquake." Other neighbors echoed these sentiments, expressing fears for their health, welfare, and safety. City officials emphasize that these new regulations are designed to ensure future data centers are "good neighbors" to Aurora residents. If the proposed regulations are not approved, the city may extend a moratorium on data center development by 30 days to allow for further deliberation.