Findlay planners debate data‑center language: setbacks, noise, lighting and water top concerns
Aug 14, 2026
The commission reviewed a draft to allow data centers as a conditional use in the I‑3 district, debated 1,000‑foot vs. 500‑foot setbacks from residences, nighttime decibel limits, lighting spectrum, and reporting requirements for water and power; staff will revise language and return in September.
The full story
Findlay City planners spent the bulk of the Aug. 13 meeting reviewing a lengthy draft to establish data centers as a conditional use in the I‑3 large‑scale industrial district. Staff summarized public feedback (about 35 emails) and described proposed review authority for water use, electrical demand, noise, lighting, screening, and emergency services. The mayor (presiding) told the room: “Legally, you cannot just not allow something,” while explaining that the ordinance can set where and how such businesses operate.
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