Inadequate Data Center Draft Ordinance Passes in Jonesborough

On Tuesday, April 21st the Jonesborough Regional Planning Commission passed their draft ordinance for the regulation of data centers. They made it clear this is meant to be proactive and they do NOT want a data center here. While we appreciate them taking action, we feel it is insufficient.

The agenda and a copy of the draft ordinance can be found here.

I spoke during the public comment period. Here is the text of my remarks:

Thank you for the opportunity to speak regarding the proposed zoning regulations for data centers and bitcoin mining operations. While this ordinance is a start, it lacks essential protections and contains no meaningful enforcement mechanisms.

If Jonesborough is to retain any real control over what may ultimately be proposed or built, the legislation must be stronger. A blanket ban is not the answer—but neither is an ordinance so limited that it leaves the town without oversight or the ability to manage the impacts of these facilities once they are operating.

It is well documented that data centers and digital mining operations place intensive demands on electricity, infrastructure, and noise thresholds, often with significant effects on surrounding communities.

This proposal does not distinguish between different scales of operation. The smallest facilities and the largest hyperscale or high‑density mining operations have vastly different environmental and utility impacts, yet the ordinance treats them the same. Setbacks and noise‑abatement provisions are inadequate and fail to address key issues. Ratepayers are not protected, and nothing in the proposal prevents infrastructure strain, including grid instability or substation overload. The setbacks are roughly half of what is typically recommended, and the most harmful noise characteristic--pure tone--is not addressed at all.

We need transparent oversight, enforceable standards, and clear definitions. And we must ensure that these facilities are allowed only in locations compatible with surrounding land uses.We also do not need to reinvent the wheel. Numerous model ordinances and national planning organizations have already published guidance on how to regulate these industries effectively.

Accordingly, I am providing a handout to the members of the board and request that it be included in the public record. I ask that the issues outlined here be addressed as you continue refining this ordinance.

The ordinance passed the board as-is and now goes to the Mayor and Aldermen. The board members asked good questions though. Alderman Terry Countermine said he had learned a lot and asked members of the community who had spoken to send their information to the other Aldermen and the Mayor and to attend their meeting next month. He said they still have the ability to make amendments before final approval.

Please reach out to our elected representatives and encourage them to study this further!