Planning commission considers updates to data center zoning regulations
Lincoln County, Nebraska, is reviewing its zoning regulations for data centers, addressing concerns about power, water, noise, and community benefits. This comes after the county commissioners declined to enact a moratorium on new data center applications. The Planning Commission is gathering information and plans to draft amendments to the regulations.
The Lincoln County Planning Commission has begun discussing updates to the county's zoning regulations for data centers, focusing on issues such as power and water requirements, noise standards, setbacks, and decommissioning. This review follows a decision by the Lincoln County Commissioners to decline a moratorium on new data center applications earlier in June, instead directing the Planning Commission to amend existing regulations.
During its meeting, the Planning Commission heard presentations from Planning and Zoning Administrator Judy Clark, the Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD), and the Twin Platte Natural Resources District (NRD). Nicole Sedlacek, NPPD's economic development manager, highlighted Nebraska's attractiveness to data centers due to its public power system and competitive rates, noting a significant surge in electrical demand, primarily from AI-focused facilities. Ann Dimmitt of the Twin Platte NRD explained the district's moratorium on new wells since 2004, indicating that data centers would need to offset groundwater use by retiring existing irrigated land.
Public comments emphasized the need for stronger regulations before accepting new data center applications. Residents like Martin Mora and William Wood urged the county to establish clear standards to ensure responsible development and maximize community benefits. Environmental concerns, including light pollution, carbon emissions, and impacts on wildlife, were also raised. While some residents called for a temporary moratorium, officials noted that only the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners could enact such a measure, which they had recently rejected in a 3-2 vote.
The planning staff will continue researching regulations and drafting language for the Planning Commission's future review, with potential amendments to be discussed and voted on in upcoming meetings before being forwarded to the Lincoln County Commissioners.