McLean County amends zoning code, again, for data centers
McLean County's Zoning Board of Appeals has voted to amend the county's zoning code for data centers, strengthening regulations on water and energy use, wastewater impacts, and backup power. The amendments also restrict data center locations to specific manufacturing districts. The proposed changes will now go before the County Board for a final vote on June 11.
The McLean County Zoning Board of Appeals has unanimously approved amendments to the county's zoning code concerning data centers. This marks the third time the county has adjusted its regulations for these facilities. The proposed changes aim to introduce stronger controls over data center development, specifically addressing water consumption, energy usage, wastewater management, and backup power systems. The amendments also limit the construction of data centers to designated manufacturing districts.
Officials emphasized that the revisions are driven by concerns regarding infrastructure, public services like water and electricity, and transportation. The initiative seeks to proactively manage the impact of data centers on the county's resources. The approved amendments will now proceed to the McLean County Board for a final vote scheduled for June 11. If ratified by the Board, the new regulations will come into effect immediately.