Resident urges stronger limits on data centers and crypto mining at Jonesborough meeting

During public comment at the Jonesborough Board of Aldermen meeting, resident Brandon Kressel urged the council to tighten proposed zoning standards for data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities, saying the draft ordinance relies too heavily on developer studies and lacks enforceable limits on energy and water consumption.

“Once these facilities are built, the impacts are real, and they’re permanent,” Kressel said, arguing that operations often run 24 hours a day, consume large amounts of electricity and water, can produce continuous industrial noise and may require new substations and transmission upgrades. He noted the ordinance’s requirement for a grid impact study does not kick in until a 20-megawatt threshold and told council members that the lack of a cap raises the risk that residents could bear the cost of infrastructure upgrades through higher utility rates.

Kressel’s comments: he asked the board to slow the process, strengthen protections (including clearer limits on energy and water use), and ensure developers will bear the cost of any necessary electrical or water infrastructure upgrades rather than residents. The mayor noted the planning commission is handling the ordinance work and pointed to an M-2 zoning map and a 1,500-foot buffer from residential structures included in the draft.

Why it matters: Kressel said high-impact infrastructure can change community character and does not typically bring long-term local jobs or integrate with downtown and tourism. Council did not take action on the ordinance at the meeting; the mayor advised Kressel to check with planning staff for the zoning map and buffer details.

Next steps: planning commission review continues; council did not amend or vote on the zoning amendments during this session.