Residents challenge controversial data center plans in Farmington

In a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the rezoning process in Farmington, particularly in relation to a proposed data center project. Nate Ryan, unable to attend, submitted comments criticizing the timing of the hearing, which he argued should have occurred prior to the planning commission's rezoning vote. He highlighted discrepancies in the timeline and order of operations followed by the Mount Council, suggesting that the process was flawed.

Ryan questioned the compatibility of the proposed zoning changes, pointing out that if a developer sought to change zoning from mixed-use commercial industrial (MUCI) to residential estates, it would likely be rejected due to incompatibility. He expressed concern that the current comp plan update was not merely a mid-cycle revision but a significant rewrite driven by anticipated tax revenues from the golf course property, which has been included in the comp plan for nearly two decades.

The discussion also touched on comparisons between the proposed Farmington site and existing data centers in West Des Moines. Officials noted that while the West Des Moines site is 408,000 square feet, the Farmington site is significantly larger at 2.5 million square feet. Concerns were raised about the proposed building heights of 50 to 80 feet, which exceed local ordinances and could negatively impact nearby residential areas.

Environmental implications were also a focal point, with members of the Environmental Coalition noting that noise from the data center could be a persistent issue, despite assurances that it would remain within state allowances. The meeting highlighted a broader debate about the potential impact of industrial developments on local property values and community well-being, with references made to similar situations in Northern Virginia, where housing markets have thrived despite the presence of data centers.

Mayor Hoyt defended the project, asserting that plans for the data center had been in motion for over a year, but critics countered that the zoning classifications in the area were misrepresented. They argued that the only industrial zones are located far from the proposed site, which is primarily surrounded by commercial zones.

The meeting concluded with a call for more thorough fact-checking and consideration of the community's needs, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning in the face of rapid industrial development.