Tighter data center rules on Fort Smith Board agenda
The Fort Smith Board of Directors is scheduled to vote on an ordinance imposing additional oversight and restrictions on future data center projects. The proposed rules would require Planning Commission review, board approval, large setbacks, screening walls and utility information about energy capacity and load.
The Fort Smith Board of Directors is preparing to vote on an ordinance that would increase the city’s control over potential data center development. The measure would require Planning Commission review followed by approval from the full board for projects in industrial zones, along with 500-foot setbacks, an eight-foot opaque wall and letters from utilities addressing available capacity and projected energy loads.
The proposal follows an Aug. 11 request for rules addressing water use, zoning and other concerns, although Fort Smith officials say no data center is currently being considered in the metro area. The ordinance does not establish higher water rates or regulate access to the regional water system, issues raised by Director Kevin Settle. Arkansas law bars local governments from banning data centers but permits rules that impose delays or significant restrictions.