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Council orders sound-study proposals after residents raise data-center noise concerns
Summary
Following public concern about low-frequency noise and vibrations from proposed data-center development, council directed staff to return with a scoped request for proposals for an acoustical study that includes ambient measurements and testing at operating data centers.
Residents and council members raised concerns about noise, low-frequency tones and possible vibration impacts tied to data-center operations. Council directed staff to prepare a scope and cost estimate for an acoustical study to measure existing ambient conditions and to test noise and low-frequency vibrations at operating data centers to inform potential permit conditions.
Howard Koontz and city staff consulted a consultant who previously performed the wastewater-plant sound study and reported that the consultant was willing to help refine the study scope before issuing an RFP. Council emphasized the need to measure dBA as well as low-frequency and vibration metrics used by acoustic specialists.
Mayor (chair) stressed that the goal is to have scientifically grounded data to inform permit conditions and public outreach, saying the city should be able to explain "why" a data center either will or will not create audible or vibration impacts at specific distances. The motion to direct staff to return with a proposed scope and funding plan for a study passed 6-0.
Why it matters: The sound study will provide baseline measurements and a technical basis for special-use permit conditions or SUP restrictions for data centers; council said it wants evidence-based rules rather than speculation in public debate.
Next steps: Staff will work with an acoustical consultant to refine a scope and cost estimate and will return with an RFP/RFQ or contract recommendation.
