BROKEN BOW, Neb. — Broken Bow officials are looking to get ahead of a developing issue as questions continue to surface about data centers and where they may fit under local zoning rules.
The Broken Bow Planning Commission is scheduled to hold a public hearing on June 30 to begin discussing possible zoning language for data centers. City officials say the goal is not to approve a project, but to make sure the city has rules in place if one is ever proposed.
Data centers can serve several purposes, including hosting computer servers for companies or operating cryptocurrency mining equipment. In rural Nebraska, officials say some of the biggest concerns involve power use, water consumption, noise, infrastructure demands, and potential impacts on nearby property owners.
Currently, Broken Bow’s zoning regulations do not specifically address data centers. The city’s zoning authority applies within city limits and extends one mile outside the city through its extraterritorial jurisdiction.
“We’re trying to be proactive here at the city,” the city official said. “Whether it’s five years from now, we have something on the books that we can use to protect the interests of Broken Bow.”
Officials said the planning commission’s role is to gather information, hear from the public, and eventually draft a recommendation that could be sent to the Broken Bow City Council. If the proposal moves forward, additional public hearings would be held before the council takes any final action.
The city is also working with Custer County officials because zoning decisions outside Broken Bow could still affect residents near the city. Officials said they have been coordinating with Custer County Zoning Administrator Marcy Tibbs as both the city and county review possible regulations.
“One thing we don’t want to see happen is have someone come into town and place that burden of upgrading infrastructure on the ratepayers,” the city official said.
The June 30 meeting is expected to focus on public input and discussion, not final approval. Officials said it is unlikely anything will be passed at that meeting.
Residents are encouraged to attend and share concerns or questions. Planning Commission meetings are typically held at noon at the Broken Bow Municipal Building. City Council meetings are held at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.
Officials said public feedback will be important as the city considers how to address issues such as setbacks, noise, water use, power consumption, background checks, and other possible requirements for future operators.
“This is a great opportunity for people with concerns to have their voices heard,” the official said. “We want to hear from people and incorporate those concerns into this future ordinance.”
Anyone with questions can contact the City of Broken Bow directly or follow updates through the city’s website and Facebook page.
