Salix Council Puts Ordinance on Data Centers in Motion

The city council in Salix, Iowa met to discuss data center developments, specifically Google's proposed project. The meeting was heated, and some attendees made public comments expressing concerns about the annexation of land for the project.

Mayor Kevin Nelson asked three people to leave the meeting due to disruptions under new 'decorum' rules. The council then started discussing a data center ordinance to govern such projects within the city limits.

Council Member Denise Burkhart suggested drafting an ordinance that addresses concerns and outlines specific regulations for data centers. The council would send this list to SIMPCO, which would draft an ordinance based on it.

The process would involve hosting town halls to gather community input on the proposed ordinance. Mayor Kevin Nelson emphasized the importance of public involvement in shaping the ordinance.