BEATRICE – The Gage County Planning Commission will be asked to review data centers and other large industrial users for possible regulations.

The Gage County Board formally approved a resolution Wednesday tasking the commission with that role, but stopping short of declaring a moratorium on large data centers….something Board Chairman Eric Tiemann feels could send the wrong message.

"I think it's important before we shut down any development in the county, that we really step back and look at what message that sends to the outside. We want to protect our citizens and resources and what's going on in the county...but we also want to keep the doors open."

Options on parcels of land throughout several southeast Nebraska counties have been taken out by data center operators, as possible sites. Gage County Supervisor Emily Haxby said a moratorium is simply a step to allow time for study.

"We talk about tax base and bringing in revenue, and I get that. And, I think everybody understands that from a taxpaying perspective. But, we also have to respect the investment that's already been made here, as well. So, finding that balance...because people that build their homes here, or are already invested here...mean just as much as your billion-dollar industry. I want to make sure we are finding that balance, and I don't see any reason not to take that pause, and work through the process."

Haxby amended her motion to send the matter to the Gage County Planning Commission, leaving out mention of moratorium. The commission itself could recommend one, if needed. The process of review is expected to take a considerable amount of time. Gage County previously declared moratoriums on wind and solar development, to allow time for review and possible regulations. Gage County Attorney Amanda Fanning weighed in on that.

"I think when they did so, they didn't follow statute. And our statutes require that for any change in regulations, be it a restriction, or a pause, or a moratorium...it requires public notice and public hearing. So, if the board decides someone should consider a moratorium for data centers going forward...set it in front of your planning and zoning board, ask them to hold a public hearing...and make a recommendation to this board to come back, hold a public hearing on whether a moratorium is appropriate. That would be the legally proper way to consider a moratorium."

County Supervisor Rex Adams says officials need to gather as much information as possible about large data centers, the power they use and the potential impacts on other land uses.

"We can research everything without saying we're not friendly to business. We can put all the restrictions we need on anything....but to kill something before it ever starts....I mean, I haven't seen anything, no one's talked to me...I haven't seen any paper."

No filings for special use permits on data centers have been received by the county. Tiemann says water use seems to be the key issue of concern. Board member Gary Lytle said at this point, it’s not so much whether you support, or oppose large data centers in your area.

"Whether you're for it, or against it...I think this conversation is good, for several reasons. I think we need to continue this conversation and I think sending this to P-and-Z to have discussions....maybe not necessarily to create regs, but to have conversations about what could go on in our county, I think is a good idea."

The board’s vote to have the commission conduct a review was 7-0. Both the commission and the county board have the power to hold public hearings on the topic.

The next planning commission meeting is April 23rd. Zoning Administrator Lisa Wiegand says that initially will be introducing the topic to start the review process.

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