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Board approves AUR Northland subdivision to create 3.26-acre lot for small data-center site off Solomon Avenue
Summary
Supervisors approved combined preliminary and final plat for a 3.26-acre lot that will host a small data-center installation adjacent to an REC substation; the board waived full subdivision street requirements and required site-specific permitting review.
The Muscatine County Board of Supervisors voted 4–0 March 17 to approve the combined preliminary and final plat for AUR Northland subdivision, creating a 3.26-acre lot intended for a small data-center installation east of Muscatine with access from Solomon Avenue.
County Development staff said the parcel sits adjacent to an REC owner-operated substation, which was the primary reason the developer cited the location. When the applicant changed the arrangement from leasing to purchase, the lot split triggered subdivision review. The zoning commission and staff recommended waiving full subdivision street construction requirements at this location and allowing the existing gravel farm lane to provide access because forcing a paved subdivision road could invite broader, unintended development onto a gravel county road.
Staff described the proposed data‑center infrastructure as up to eight "pods" roughly the size of shipping containers, plus a small office/trailer for a few on-site employees. The developer’s initial plan indicated air‑cooled equipment, but county staff said they are requesting more detail on plumbing, employee restrooms, septic and whether a well will be required — staff will not accept permanent porta-potties as the county’s commercial plumbing and building code (International Building Code/IBC) governs commercial facilities.
County staff said the company had engaged REC about electrical service before applying and that REC access remains the utility pathway. Staff also noted that an adjoining property in city limits had a related proposal, and county and city staff are working to improve coordination so access and safety issues can be addressed across jurisdictional lines.
Supervisors approved the plat and waived the road requirement with the caveat that any future subdivision of the R‑1 property would be subject to full streets and access review. The board and staff emphasized the site’s small size and setbacks in R‑1 (including a 35-foot height limit in residential districts) limit expansion at this location.
Ending: The board carried the motion by roll-call vote (ayes recorded by supervisors) and approved the preliminary/final plat; staff will continue technical reviews of water, septic and electrical systems as part of building and special‑use permitting.
