Elk River Planning Commission recommends city council re-evaluate plans for data center
The Elk River Planning Commission recommended that the city council vote against an ordinance that would facilitate data center development and implement a six-month moratorium to address public concerns. This comes amidst strong local opposition, particularly from a brewery owner concerned about noise pollution. The city council is set to make a final decision on July 6.
The Elk River Planning Commission has recommended that the city council reject a proposed ordinance that would pave the way for data centers in industrial zones, including a project by Swervo Development. The commission also advised a six-month moratorium to thoroughly evaluate community concerns.
Timothy Jones, owner of a local brewery located near the proposed 33-megawatt data center site, leads the opposition, citing concerns over constant noise from cooling equipment. Although a third-party study suggests the noise levels would be below Minnesota's legal limit of 80 decibels with mitigation, Jones argues that 70-decibel noise would still deter customers from his business, potentially forcing him to close or relocate.
Despite the potential for up to $800,000 in additional revenue for the city and stabilized rates for Elk River Municipal Utilities customers, the planning commission sided with the residents. Mark Hanson, general manager for Elk River Municipal Utilities, emphasized the significant financial opportunity the data center's high power bill would provide. The city council will hold the final vote on July 6.