Metro Planning Commission backs two bills on data centers

The Metro Planning Commission has formally endorsed two proposed bills concerning data center development, which are now advancing to the Metro Council. These legislative efforts are driven by persistent community opposition to data center projects in Nashville, particularly those near the Nashville Zoo and Fisk University.

One bill, sponsored by Metro Council Planning and Zoning Committee Chair Rollin Horton, seeks to establish comprehensive zoning regulations for data centers, a framework currently absent from Metro code. The second bill, introduced by Metro Councilmember Courtney Johnston, aims to implement a moratorium on new data center permits until the city can finalize and enact new regulations. Both bills are scheduled for a second reading, including an uncapped public hearing, at the July 7 Metro Council meeting, with a final vote expected later in July.

A representative for DC Blox, Doug Sloan, whose company has a data center project proposed near the Nashville Zoo, argued that their project's property rights are already vested under existing state law, potentially rendering new regulations inapplicable to their current application. Sloan asserted that the proposed legislation is based on "fear and not facts," denying claims of excessive noise or harm. The Nashville Zoo has vocalized its opposition to the project and is reportedly considering legal action.

The proposed zoning bill by Horton would prohibit the largest data centers in Davidson County and impose strict location restrictions on other large facilities, banning them near sensitive sites like schools and hospitals. It would also mandate a zoning exception and public hearing for data center permits. Councilmember Johnston views the moratorium as an an "insurance policy," acknowledging that it might become moot if the new zoning regulations pass concurrently.