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Jonesborough board approves first reading of ordinance limiting data centers near substations
Summary
On first reading the board approved rules that would keep large data centers at least 1,500 feet from homes, set noise limits (55 dB day; 45 dB night) and require acoustical and vibration studies and annual reports; staff said locating in M-2 zones would still be possible but applicants could be required to build power infrastructure.
The Town of Jonesborough on March 16 approved on first reading an ordinance intended to limit where data centers and high-power computing operations can locate inside town limits and set operating standards for noise, vibration and reporting.
Mayor Kelly Wolfe and town staff said the ordinance responds to a previous, disruptive installation in the county and aims to protect residential neighborhoods near the town’s substations. The ordinance sets a minimum separation of 1,500 feet between such facilities and residences, daytime noise not to exceed 55 decibels and nighttime noise limited to 45 decibels, and requires professional acoustical and vibration studies and annual reporting if a facility locates in town.
Glenn, a town staff member who took part in drafting the code language, told the board the target standards reflect contemporary technology and that many higher-end centers are quieter than older facilities. He said the ordinance anticipates a professional study at the site and noted the measurement would be done so noise would not “bleed off-site.”
Town attorney Jim Wheeler told the board the draft does not require a facility to locate at an existing substation; a company could, at its own expense, build a new substation to serve a proposed data center. Wheeler said that point was important to the town’s legal record: the ordinance narrows placement through zoning and technical requirements but does not prohibit locating in M-2 zoned properties if the developer can meet standards.
The board asked for a map showing areas around the two substations and potential sites that might meet the ordinance’s criteria before second reading; staff agreed. The ordinance also sets reporting and compliance steps the town would use to enforce the code and requires that any proposed site meet spacing, water, wastewater and electrical-demand standards.
Alderman Counterman moved to approve the ordinance on first reading; Alderman Jenkins seconded. The motion passed by roll-call vote.
The ordinance will return for a second reading in a future meeting with the requested map and additional examples of measured decibel levels.
