Olive Branch Planning Commission considers data center zoning changes
The Olive Branch Planning Commission is considering two proposals related to data centers, including changes to how they are zoned within the city. One proposal aims to explicitly permit data centers in industrial districts, moving them from a conditional status. Additionally, the commission is reviewing the rezoning of land to create the DeSoto Innovation District, which could house various industries, including data centers.
The Olive Branch Planning Commission is currently reviewing two significant proposals concerning data center development and land use in the area. During a meeting on Tuesday night, the commission is deliberating changes to local zoning laws that would affect data centers.
One key proposal seeks to explicitly categorize data centers as permitted uses within industrial districts, shifting them from their current status where they require conditional city approval. Concurrently, the commission is considering the rezoning of a parcel of land located west of Craft Road, north of Church Road, and along Nolehoe Creek. This area is slated to become the DeSoto Innovation District. The proposed district is designed to include a cleanfill site, industrial facilities, a walking trail, and would permit various industries such as manufacturing and research. The potential for data centers within this new innovation district is contingent upon the commission's decision regarding the broader zoning law changes.