Legislation Details

File #: DC-5298    Version: 1
Type: Regular Information Status: Presented
File created: 1/14/2026 In control: Board of Commissioners
On agenda: 4/7/2026 Final action: 4/7/2026
Enactment date: Resolution #:
Title: Discussion On Data Center Development In Dakota County
Sponsors: Environmental Resources
Indexes: Yes
Attachments: 1. Presentation Slides

DEPARTMENT: Environmental Resources

FILE TYPE: Regular Information

 

TITLE

title

Discussion On Data Center Development In Dakota County

end

 

PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED

Provide information on data center development in Dakota County.

 

SUMMARY

Several new data centers have been proposed for development in Dakota County over the last couple of years according to environmental review documents, all at various stages of development. The county also has a couple of data centers that have been in operation for years.

 

Cities and townships in Dakota County have land use and zoning authority. Exceptions with County oversight are related to County Ordinance 50, Shoreland and Floodplain Management, and County Ordinance 114, Well and Water Supply Management.  Per County Ordinance 50, there are restrictions in shoreland and floodplain development and impacts to the County’s public ditches; both requiring permits. In accordance with County Ordinance 114, the County regulates the construction, reconstruction, operations, maintenance, repair, and sealing of most wells, except for community/municipal wells.

 

Staff will provide background on data centers and overview of the county’s limited role primarily related to groundwater, transportation, and valuation and property taxation.

 

RECOMMENDATION

recommendation

Information only; no action requested.

end

 

EXPLANATION OF FISCAL/FTE IMPACTS

  ☒ None              ☐ Current budget              ☐ Other        

  ☐ Amendment Requested                           ☐ New FTE(s) requested

 

RESOLUTION

body

Information only; no action requested.

end

 

PREVIOUS BOARD ACTION

None.

 

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment: Presentation Slides

 

BOARD GOALS

   ☐ Thriving People        ☒ A Healthy Environment with Quality Natural Resources

   ☒ A Successful Place for Business and Jobs         ☐ Excellence in Public Service

 

CONTACT

Department Head: Nikki Stewart

Author: Nikki Stewart