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Council takes first read on zoning changes to address potential data centers and tow yards
Summary
City staff introduced amendments to the municipal code to add definitions and special-use provisions for data centers and vehicular tow yards; the measure had its first reading and staff urged council to consider the changes to allow discretionary review when those uses arise.
City staff presented and the council approved a first reading of an ordinance that would amend the municipal code to add definitions and special-use provisions for data centers and vehicular tow yards and to create a discretionary special-use pathway for uses not explicitly listed in the code.
Chris Taber, principal planner, told the council the amendments would change Title 4, Chapter 405, by adding definitions to Section 405.020 and updating Section 405.670 under Article 4058 (Special Use Regulations). "The intent of the ordinance change is to prepare the municipal code for the possibility of future incoming special uses, specifically data centers and vehicular tow yards," Taber said. He said staff added definitions for both uses and proposed where each might be allowed with a special-use permit.
Under the draft, data centers would be allowed to locate in M-2 (heavy industrial) zoning with a special-use permit. Vehicular tow yards would be added to the special-use list for C-2, C-3, M-1 and M-2 zoning districts, permitting case-by-case consideration where a full M-2 rezoning would not be appropriate. Taber said staff also included a more general discretionary allowance so the council could approve other uses that ‘‘meet the intent and character of the ordinance’’ even if not specifically listed.
Council members asked questions about typical concerns tied to data centers and about the special-use review process. Taber described likely issues the city would consider, including potential nuisances such as loud noise and screening requirements, and summarized the public-notice and review steps: notification within 185 feet, newspaper posting, review by the Planning and Zoning Commission and two readings before council.
This was a first read; no public comments were recorded and staff recommended approval. The council did not take final action during this meeting; staff requested council members consult with staff before the next meeting if they have questions.
