Citing long-term water supply concerns in the face of expected Colorado River cuts, the Gilbert Planning Commission voted Aug. 5 to recommend changing the Land Development Code to create strict water, power, sound, lighting and design standards for data centers within the town limits.
The Town issued a statement that said the text amendment is intended to ensure “appropriate regulations” are in place if a large data center is eventually proposed in the community.
Large-scale data centers are not currently included in any of Gilbert’s targeted economic sectors.
A Town spokesperson said the added requirements are intended to protect Gilbert’s long-term water supply and to encourage “responsible development.” (Source: Phoenix Business Journal)