Commission presses for stronger noise and vibration testing for data centers

Coffee County commissioners told staff on July 28 they want more than a basic decibel test for proposed data centers, raising concerns about sub‑audible vibration and long‑term noise impacts on neighbors and livestock.

"Most of these centers, they just do decibel level testing. They don't do sub audible testing," the Chair said, framing the commission's concern that common sound tests may not capture low‑frequency vibrations that residents and animals complain about. The planner and commissioners discussed requiring a complete testing regimen — pre‑construction, post‑installation and periodic monitoring — and debated who should perform those tests. Several members proposed a county‑approved list of engineers the applicant must choose from, or that the county hire a reviewer at the applicant’s cost to validate submitted reports.

Commissioners also discussed monitoring frequency. Members favored ongoing checks (quarterly was mentioned) rather than one‑time testing, and asked staff to identify procedures — including technical parameters planners would require and whether the county should retain an engineer to "grade" applicants' reports at their expense. The planner cautioned that some impacts are not well studied and stressed using comparable local yard standards rather than singling out a single use in a way that could create legal vulnerability.

The commission directed staff to bring back specific testing language and a proposed approval/verification process in time for the next round of drafting.