Planning Commission recommends industrial rezoning for 255-acre annexed area; residents raise data-center concerns

The planning commission voted unanimously to recommend City Council approve a rezone request for two recently annexed parcels totaling about 255 acres east of Highway 31E and south of Bright's Lane to Industrial Restrictive (IR). Kimberly Hatley, staff planner, said both properties were annexed on 07/07/2026 and that a related comprehensive plan amendment is under council review to expand the Gallatin Gateway industrial sub area. "The proposed zoning is in agreement with the intended land use recommendations of the plan Gallatin," Hatley said, and staff recommended approval of the resolution.

During the public comment period Cindy Lorky, who gave her address as 496 Dottie Drive, urged the commission to consider regulatory measures related to data centers, including requiring escrow funds for decommissioning, prohibiting cooling systems that use public water resources, and adopting engineered noise mitigation for tonal sounds. "You may ask that they put dollars in escrow for decommissioning," Lorky said, adding concern that large, hyper-scaled data centers can become obsolete and use significant water and electricity. Another resident, who identified themselves as Romasi, voiced support for the rezoning and urged the commission to continue the approval process. The commission noted the item will go to City Council for final review and approval.