Officials propose noise, lighting and road‑use rules for data centers

During the joint session, officials considered operational standards to limit community impacts from data‑center construction and operation. The group discussed a 55‑decibel noise limit, requiring generators to be enclosed, and restricting construction noise to designated hours to reduce disturbances.

Traffic and road impacts were addressed through proposals for road‑use agreements, staggered working hours to reduce peak loads, and fines for violations of road‑use requirements. Participants also suggested adopting lighting standards consistent with Linn County to limit light spill and preserve night‑time character. No final thresholds or ordinances were adopted at the meeting.