EDA discusses data-center ordinance, benefits agreements and noise standards

The EDA revisited the Data Center Ordinance (reviewed by EDA, Planning & Zoning, and City Council on Aug. 5) and board members posed follow-up questions about employment estimates, how the city would gather public input on community benefit agreements or franchise fees, and whether EDA or ad hoc committees should be engaged to recommend investments of proceeds.

Board member Greg Schieber stated a legal constraint on noise limits, saying, "As long as the company meets the standard set, we can not deny it." The board discussed the need to "think big" when negotiating benefit agreements and to clarify where jobs and other proposal numbers would originate (applicants’ proposals would list estimated jobs). No regulatory change or vote was taken at the meeting; the discussion produced follow-up questions for staff.