Commission raises water, noise and decommissioning concerns as data centers gain attention

Berry County planning staff reported growing municipal interest in zoning and decommissioning rules for data centers and large solar projects, and the commission discussed drafting a regional model ordinance to address water use, noise, emergency response and decommissioning costs.

Staff (S5) said Watts Township and other municipalities are seeking guidance after recent proposals and cited supervisors’ concerns about noise, high water and electric consumption, and the financial risk to townships if facilities are abandoned. "Water consumption is very high," staff said, and commissioners discussed options such as closed‑loop cooling systems, mandatory offsets (for example, a suggested 25% offset of generation to consumption), or financial securities to pay for decommissioning.

Commissioners and participants discussed how emergency response and fire suppression at data centers differ from typical structure fires, noting potential contamination and replacement costs for firefighter gear after foam or chemical suppression. They also raised power grid concerns: participants referenced a 250‑megawatt figure mentioned in neighboring municipalities as context for scale and potential system impacts.

The commission favored producing a model DRI (development of regional impact) ordinance that municipalities could adapt, including optional provisions for required offsets, closed‑loop cooling, decommissioning bonds, noise buffers and limits on accessory power generation placement. Staff recommended coordinating model language so townships can choose stricter zoning options (e.g., forbidding sensitive sensory receptors near facilities) or allow development subject to stricter site‑level mitigation.

The commission also noted practical steps: require permitting and HOP linkage to building permits, require clear developer‑funded engineering reviews and escrow for county engineer fees, and ensure municipal signatures or documented township review accompany cross‑municipal plans. Staff said draft model ordinance language will be circulated for review at future meetings.