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Story County continues consideration of rules for data centers, crypto operations and battery storage
Summary
After extended input at first reading, the Board took public comment on Ordinance No. 330 (uses for data processing, digital asset mining and battery/energy storage) and set Third Consideration for March 17; staff said the moratorium will return before 3/31/26.
Planning and Development Director Leanne Harter presented Ordinance No. 330, a text amendment to Chapters 85, 86, 88 and 90 of the Story County Code of Ordinances to address uses such as digital asset mining, cryptocurrency operations, data processing centers and battery/energy storage solutions in unincorporated Story County. Harter said the draft had been amended after extensive public input at first consideration and recommended Alternative 1. Murken opened the public hearing at 10:08 a.m.
Several members of the public spoke. Peter Biechler (Ames) asked clarifying questions about next steps; Chair Murken replied the moratorium will return to the Board prior to March 31, 2026, and staff is coordinating with legal counsel on future policy. Nevada resident Steve Lekwa raised concerns about drainage and stormwater runoff and asked whether county ordinances cover those topics; Harter responded that state legislation passed a couple of years ago prohibits counties and cities from regulating post-construction stormwater runoff. Susie Petra (Ames) said she provided the Board with an Iowa Capital Dispatch article noting that lawmakers in at least 11 states have introduced legislation temporarily banning data centers. After discussion the Board approved Second Consideration and set Third Consideration for March 17, 2026 (roll call, MCU).
