Zoning staff report strong turnout and concerns at data‑processing facility work session

Zoning department staff told the board that a June 15 joint work session on a proposed high‑density computing (data‑processing) facility ordinance drew large public interest with strong turnout both in person and on Zoom. Staff estimated roughly 120–130 participants across the main room and overflow and summarized public input as generally supportive of a proactive local ordinance while urging clearer rules on siting and enforcement.

According to the zoning staff summary, "The concerns expressed focused mainly on setbacks, noise and vibration, utility demand, water use, who pays for infrastructure upgrades, e waste and other waste handling, scenic byway protection, and making sure there are meaningful enforcement tools and penalties if a facility violates the ordinance." The zoning department said its priorities are to keep routine permitting moving while refining draft ordinance language to fit Jackson County's conditions and to improve outreach through geo‑permitting tools.