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Residents urge stricter limits, moratoriums and stronger notification in Data Center public hearing
Summary
Dozens of residents called for tighter controls or a moratorium on Data Center development, citing concerns about noise (generator testing), groundwater depletion, air emissions, lighting, and lack of timely notice; speakers requested mandatory cumulative-impact reviews and clearer testing schedules for emergency generators.
During the Plan Commission public hearing on April 28, residents voiced sustained concern about the local impacts of Data Centers, requesting stronger protections on generator emissions and noise, specific testing schedules, restrictions on water use, and improved public notice when projects are proposed.
Multiple speakers described discomfort with how notices were distributed and asked that the draft ordinance require mandatory cumulative-impact reviews rather than leaving that review as discretionary. Deborah Shore, a former EPA regional administrator, recommended replacing "may" with "shall" in the cumulative-impact language so the Plan Commission is required to consider the combined effects of existing and approved facilities. "Cumulative health impact assessments are considered best practices," she said, and urged detailed, scheduled generator testing that lists days, times and sequencing.
Other commenters pressed the commission to limit data centers to heavy-industrial zones (M2) or to create a dedicated data-center zoning classification, to require use of non-potable or recycled water for cooling where feasible, and to require advanced pollution controls or biodiesel for backup generators. Several speakers recounted hearing persistent humming in other communities and expressed worry about groundwater impacts and property values. County staff and several commissioners said the draft ordinance is a first step and that the county needs a workable regulation in place; supporters said regulation is preferable to a moratorium but some residents still called for a pause to allow further study.
The hearing produced no technical studies; residents requested more specific, enforceable language on testing, noise limits, generator sequencing and contingency measures to ensure developers deliver promised mitigations.
