Commission directs staff to refine data‑center zoning language and schedule public hearing

At the May 14 work session the Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed a draft zoning text amendment to regulate data centers and related facilities. Staff presented draft development standards that would identify where data centers are allowed and would require separation from dwellings, schools, places of worship and parks in some cases.

City/county planner Steve Josephson told the commission staff researched local and out‑of‑state approaches and noted many existing codes target large, power‑intensive crypto mining operations. He recommended adding flexibility that would allow the city to reduce separation requirements by special use permit if an applicant shows hardship and the owners of intervening properties do not object.

Commissioners raised concerns that a single set of distance rules could overreach for low‑impact server farms and AI data centers that resemble office buildings. Commissioners asked staff to refine the draft to tie separation and other special requirements to measurable triggers such as expected noise levels, cooling method (fan vs. water), and power purchase agreements or power‑use thresholds, and to include requirements for acoustic studies and proof of power arrangements where appropriate.

Staff was directed to revise the draft and advertise a public hearing so the commission can take a formal recommendation to the City Commission after receiving public comment.