Chillicothe Mayor and Electronics Worker Address Data Center Concerns
Chillicothe City Council passed a 60-day data center moratorium to allow time to develop specific regulations, as their current codes do not address data centers. Mayor Luke Feeney briefed the council on their efforts, and a local resident with industry experience spoke about evolving data center technology, including reduced noise and water usage.
Mayor Luke Feeney briefed the Chillicothe City Council on the city's efforts to understand data center development ahead of a passed 60-day moratorium. The temporary halt aims to allow the city to develop specific regulations, as its current Unified Development Code does not address data centers. Feeney noted the city has retained legal counsel, Bricker Graydon Wyatt, to assist in shaping a legal framework that balances community and business concerns.
The mayor emphasized that the moratorium is a proactive measure, as the city has not yet received any data center zoning or building applications. He highlighted the need for a thoughtful, accelerated conversation to codify rules and priorities, ensuring transparency and public input. Feeney stressed that the action is "pro-community and community voice," not explicitly pro- or anti-data center.
During the public address segment, local resident and landowner Jeff McCarty, who has 45 years of experience in data center construction, offered insights into the industry's evolution. He specifically addressed common concerns, noting advancements in reducing noise levels and developing closed-loop cooling systems that minimize water usage.