The Bloomington City Council is expected to continue discussions regarding data centers and possible next steps during its Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, May 18.
The City adopted its first zoning standards for data centers in 2025, formally defining “Data Center” within City code and establishing baseline requirements for site design, buffering, traffic circulation, parking, and noise.
City officials recently became aware of potential interest in a hyperscale data center on land near Bloomington. In response, Mayor Dan Brady held two public forums on May 2 to gather public input and address community concerns.
Residents expressed concerns about long-term environmental impacts, noise, visual screening, infrastructure demands, and compatibility with surrounding land uses.
City staff said additional review is needed as industry standards and regulations continue to evolve nationwide.
“To allow time for a more comprehensive review process, staff is going to propose a temporary moratorium on applications for hyperscale data centers while updated regulations are considered,” City Manager Jeff Jurgens said.
Mayor Dan Brady said the proposed moratorium would give the City time to review additional standards, gather more public feedback, and ensure the community’s long-term interests are protected.
Any formal action on a temporary moratorium would require future approval from the Bloomington City Council.
