Metro Council to discuss new data center zoning. Here's what we know
The Nashville Metro Council has passed two pieces of legislation regarding data centers: one creates new rules limiting where data centers can be built, confining them to specific industrial areas with special approval. The second enacts a temporary pause on new data center proposals until November. Additionally, the Gallatin City Council is set to vote on a resolution to direct its Planning Commission to consider a potential moratorium on new data center construction.
The Nashville Metro Council has taken final votes on two significant proposals aimed at regulating data center development within the city. Mayor Freddie O'Connell has publicly encouraged the passage of this legislation.
One of the approved measures establishes new rules restricting the locations where data centers can be built, confining them to designated industrial areas and requiring special approval for development. The second proposal enacts a temporary moratorium, pausing new data center proposals until November. This pause is intended to provide the city with additional time to finalize any further regulations deemed necessary. These votes followed a packed council meeting where hundreds of people spoke out, extending the session into the early morning hours.
Separately, the Gallatin City Council is also considering a resolution regarding data center regulations. This resolution, if passed, would direct Gallatin's Planning Commission to evaluate a potential moratorium on the construction of new data centers. The Planning Commission is expected to discuss next steps at its July 27th meeting.