Data Center Regulations
The Tucson City Council is considering new regulations for large-scale data centers, with a potential vote tonight. The proposed ordinance would impose strict rules regarding zoning, noise, energy consumption, and the prohibition of potable water for cooling, reflecting ongoing community and leadership opposition to these developments.
The Tucson City Council is slated to vote tonight on a new ordinance that would implement strict regulations for future large-scale data centers within city limits. This comes after months of deliberation involving council members, city staff, and residents, and a year after the council unanimously rejected the annexation of "Project Blue" into the city.
According to News 4 Tucson's Eric Frink, there is widespread opposition to large-scale data centers from both community members and some city leaders. The proposed ordinance mandates that future data centers be part of a planned area or community development, separate from current zoning rules. Key regulations include a half-mile buffer from homes or schools, strict noise and energy use requirements, and a prohibition on using potable water for cooling.
City Council Member Miranda Schubert stated her intention to vote yes, clarifying that even if passed, the ordinance only establishes a baseline. Mayor and council would still need to approve each project individually, preserving opportunities for community input and additional requirements. A separate public hearing for the data center regulations is scheduled for tonight.