ESTHERVILLE, IA (Northwestiowanow) – The City of Estherville has advanced a public hearing on a proposed data center ordinance following extensive discussion Monday night.

The Planning and Zoning Commission recently drafted the ordinance, which would establish regulations for future data center development in Estherville.

Councilman David Hovinga voiced concerns that the draft does not include enough restrictions on low-frequency noise that could be generated by a future data center.

He found studies suggesting low-frequency sound below 100 hertz may be linked to headaches, anxiety, cardiovascular issues, and other health concerns.

 

Hovinga noted additional protections are needed because the proposed overlay district is located near schools, Iowa Lakes Community College, and the Regional Wellness Center.

Councilman Gary Myers said he believes many of the potential noise issues can be addressed through construction standards and sound mitigation measures.

 

 

The council debated whether to send the draft ordinance back to the Planning and Zoning Commission for additional work or hold a public hearing first to gather more information and public input regarding sound pollution.

Mayor Tony Condon reassured those in attendance that city leaders would carefully evaluate the proposal throughout the process.

 

 

Following the discussion, the council voted to proceed with a public hearing on the proposed ordinance during their next city council meeting on November 16.

Hovinga cast the lone no vote.

He says the ordinance should have been sent back to the Planning and Zoning Commission before a public hearing was held.