Tucson, Arizona (KVOA) – Pima County takes steps to regulate the expansion of data centers and other large users with a proposed change in the zoning code text.
Jennifer Allen, supervisor of District 3 and deputy chairman, emphasized the need for participation and transparency for the public. When changing, data centers would have to be necessary in order to obtain a conditional usage permit that includes thorough checks and public hearings.
“Currently, data centers are allowed in some industrially zoned packages 'to the right',” said Allen. The proposed changes aim to remedy this by ensuring that data centers are subjected to a comprehensive assessment.
The change would also make concerns about noise, water and energy consumption, the design standards and the commitment of the community. All emphasized how important it is to define expectations for these facilities due to the growing presence of AI.
Pima County plans to work with various departments and organizations in the community to ensure a comprehensive supervision of future projects.