As discussions around data centers continue across Dubuque County and neighboring communities, the past week brought several important developments. Here is a recap of what we've been monitoring, where conversations currently stand, and what to watch in the weeks ahead.

What We've Been Following

Dubuque City Continues Ordinance Discussion

At the August 17 City Council meeting, council members reviewed results from community input sessions and the recent data center survey. Discussion focused on the challenges of accommodating hyperscale data centers within city limits, including land availability, topography, water and electrical demands, noise mitigation, stormwater management, and decommissioning requirements. Council members expressed support for pursuing a hybrid ordinance structure and directed staff to prepare a six-month moratorium for consideration at the September 8 meeting. Officials emphasized that no data center proposal has been submitted within the City of Dubuque. 

Jackson County Continues Reviewing Regulations

The Jackson County Zoning Commission continued work on its draft High Density Computing Facilities Ordinance and discussed zoning, siting, operational standards, and implementation considerations. Meanwhile, the county has extended its moratorium as officials and legal counsel continue reviewing ordinance language and emerging information from across Iowa. 

Dubuque County Planning Discussions Advance

During the Dubuque County Zoning Commission meeting, commissioners focused primarily on routine zoning matters but also discussed scheduling dedicated work sessions on data centers. Planning staff, including Ed Raber, outlined potential ordinance development approaches that could be presented for future consideration. 

Peosta Data Center Concept Discussed

At a Peosta City Council work session, developer James Conlon discussed a conceptual data center project south of Highway 20 along Cox Spring Road. According to the presentation, the project would involve approximately 194 acres, require annexation into Peosta, and potentially include an on-site gas-fired power facility. Council members repeatedly noted that the project remains conceptual and that no formal proposal has been submitted. Citizens and council members were able to ask questions during the session. 

Leadership Group Highlights

The leadership team continues refining draft ordinance recommendations with input from community stakeholders and local officials. Committee members reported receiving constructive feedback from several local supervisor candidates and are working toward publishing a draft framework for public review. 

Members also reviewed findings from a recent watershed-focused meeting. Geologists and DNR representatives highlighted the importance of conducting water studies prior to development applications and discussed monitoring challenges associated with large-scale water users. Water use remains one of the key topics being evaluated as communities consider future data center proposals. 

In addition, representatives attended the Save Morgan Valley gathering in Cedar Rapids, where residents are organizing around concerns related to a proposed gas-fired power plant intended to support data center development. Information gathered from that event is being reviewed and shared with local groups. 

Regional Trends

Communities across Iowa continue examining data center proposals and regulatory approaches. Recent actions include moratorium extensions, ordinance development, and ongoing public discussions in several counties and municipalities. Local leaders are increasingly sharing information and learning from experiences elsewhere in the state as they evaluate future development proposals. 

Why Community Participation Matters

This week serves as another reminder that showing up matters.

Many of the decisions that will affect our communities are being discussed right now. If residents want strong, enforceable standards and transparent decision-making, participation must happen before policies are finalized, not afterward.

Recent survey results indicate significant public concern regarding data center development. Community engagement has become an important factor in shaping ongoing discussions at both the city and county level.

Peosta's ordinance process demonstrates how important public involvement can be. Local officials are reviewing conceptual information, gathering knowledge, and working to establish standards before taking action on any future proposals. The meetings occurring today give residents an opportunity to learn about potential developments, ask questions, and help shape future policy.

Every person who attends a meeting sends a message that the community is paying attention. Consistent participation helps ensure that decision-makers understand the priorities and concerns of the residents they represent.

Community Challenge: Get Involved

Attend a Meeting

Review upcoming meetings and attend those that fit your schedule. Even attending for a portion of a meeting helps demonstrate community interest.

Bring Someone With You

Invite a neighbor, friend, coworker, or family member who may not yet be following the issue.

Start Two Conversations

Talk with at least two people this week about data center development and ongoing ordinance discussions. Help others understand what is being considered and encourage them to stay informed.

Make Your Voice Visible

Community members interested in raising awareness can create informational signs, share educational materials, and participate in public discussions that encourage transparency and accountability.

Stay Informed

Continue following meeting notices, updates, and educational resources through community communication channels and by visiting:

www.datacenteraccountabilitydbq.org

Looking Ahead

Upcoming Meetings of Interest

• August 24: Dubuque County Supervisors Data Center Work Session – 1:00 PM 

• August 25: Peosta City Council Meeting – 6:00 PM

• August 25: Jackson County Board of Supervisors – 9:00 AM

• August 26: Dubuque County Board of Health Meeting – 5:00 PM 

• August 27: Dubuque County Conservation Board Meeting – 4:00 PM 

• September 2: Dubuque County Board of Health Citizens Data Center Health Impact Work Group – 5:00 PM 

• September 8: Dubuque City Council Meeting – Moratorium discussion anticipated. 

What We'll Be Watching

• Release of draft ordinance language for community review. 

• Outcomes from the August 24 County Supervisors work session

• Progress on city and county zoning frameworks. 

• Continued discussions regarding water usage, infrastructure impacts, and environmental considerations. 

Thank you to everyone who continues attending meetings, reviewing materials, submitting feedback, and staying engaged. As discussions evolve, informed participation remains one of the most important ways our communities can help shape future decisions.

~ Data Center Accountability Dubuque