Linn County halts nuclear zoning plan after public pushback
Linn County supervisors have decided to halt proposed zoning changes that would have permitted large data centers near nuclear energy facilities, citing significant public opposition. Residents raised concerns about water, power grid capacity, land use, and environmental impacts. The decision follows an earlier 18-month moratorium on new data center rezoning applications in a different county zoning district.
Linn County supervisors have decided to abandon proposed zoning amendments that would have allowed large data centers to be built near nuclear energy facilities within the EU-2 (Exclusive Use-Two) zoning district. This decision was made after significant public feedback was gathered during a July 20 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, where residents expressed a range of concerns.
Key issues raised by the public included water availability, the capacity of the power grid, compatibility with existing land uses, potential environmental impacts, and long-term regional planning. Supervisor Brandy Meisheid noted the community's history of supporting nuclear energy and the potential role of data centers in the proposed restart of the Duane Arnold Energy Center, but emphasized the importance of resident input. "Based on that feedback, the Board of Supervisors has decided not to move forward with amendments to the EU-2 district at this time," Meisheid stated.
This development comes shortly after the board approved an 18-month moratorium on new large-scale data center rezoning applications in the EU-3 zoning district on July 1. This pause was implemented to allow the county time to conduct zoning studies, gather additional public feedback, complete a water resources study, and review the county's comprehensive plan. Residents are encouraged to continue providing input via email.