Delavan residents give thoughts on proposed data center zoning changes

The Delavan Plan Commission recently met to discuss potential zoning restrictions for data centers, should any proposals arise in the city. City officials clarified that there are currently no concrete plans for a data center in Delavan. Despite the lack of an immediate project, several residents voiced strong opposition to the concept of data centers being built in their community. Rocky Feeney, a 40-year resident, questioned the suitability of a data center for their small town, while William Peterson, who moved to Delavan for its small-town atmosphere, expressed concern about widespread impacts and limited financial benefits for residents. Peterson urged officials to "Shut it down. Don't entertain the idea. Let's stop it before it starts." The proposed zoning changes, if adopted, would restrict data centers to areas designated for heavy manufacturing and mandate specific distances from residential zones. While Feeney acknowledged the necessity for such rules, Peterson remained steadfast in his complete rejection of any data center discussions.