In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the implications of allowing data centers in the city, highlighting concerns over infrastructure demands, particularly regarding power and water usage. The conversation began with a light-hearted remark about the potential for an empty nester to convert their home into a data center, but quickly shifted to serious considerations about the impact of such facilities.

Research presented by a staff member indicated that data centers can be categorized into small and large scales, with the majority being smaller operations. However, the discussion revealed skepticism about the feasibility of accommodating even small data centers, given the significant utility demands they impose. One official noted that data centers are \"very utility intensive,\" raising alarms about the city's capacity to support them, especially in terms of power and water resources.

Concerns were echoed regarding the noise pollution associated with data centers, with some officials advocating for stricter zoning regulations. The consensus leaned towards treating data centers as conditional uses rather than permitted uses in certain zones, reflecting a cautious approach to their integration into the community.

The meeting also touched on the experiences of other cities, such as Eagle Mountain, which have moved away from permitting data centers due to the heavy infrastructure investments required. Officials debated whether the potential tax revenue from data centers would outweigh the strain on local resources.

A motion was proposed to table the ordinance regarding data centers, suggesting a need for further analysis and consideration of specific zoning districts tailored for such facilities. The discussion underscored the complexities of balancing economic development with the sustainability of local resources, indicating that any future decisions will require careful deliberation.