Plan Commission recommends data center ordinance to City Council after debate over bonds, setbacks and roads

The Clinton City Plan Commission voted to recommend that the City Council adopt a proposed ordinance amending Chapter 159 to add definitions and standalone standards for data centers in industrial districts, citing the staff report dated July 17, 2026. The motion, carried by roll call, included a note that the council should review recommendations on performance bonds and residential setbacks.

Commissioners used the discussion to press for stronger safeguards before the Council’s review. One commissioner said, “I will be abstaining from voting on, this ordinance and the chapter 159 of the code tonight,” citing absence from the prior meeting. Another commissioner argued that “the performance bond should be added in,” saying a project of that size needs a guarantee to ensure work is completed and followed through.

The commission also debated how infrastructure would be provided and paid for. Multiple commissioners asked whether the developer or the city would build and fund roads and utility access; staff indicated the draft contemplates developer responsibility but acknowledged the commission may recommend clarifying language for Council consideration. A commissioner further suggested developers should “build their own power plant” so residents would not pick up additional utility costs.

The motion to recommend the ordinance referenced the July 17 staff memo from city attorney Pat O’Connell and explicitly invited the City Council to consider recommended additions including performance bonds and residential setbacks. The roll-call vote produced a majority in favor, with one recorded no vote and one abstention; the commission then agreed to forward the full hearing record and staff materials to City Council.