Johnson City commissioners approve rezoning for “data centers”

Johnson City commissioners unanimously approved the first reading of a rezoning amendment regarding data centers, like bitcoin mines, in industrial zones in the city. Johnson City leaders want to place significant limitations around where the city will allow data center development. Community members showed up in opposition, siting noise, emissions, health consequences for people and animals near data centers, along with the effects on the power grid. City leaders say there is no plan to actively pursue data center development within the city, but want to put those limitations in place before it becomes an issue. The second reading will be heard at the next commission meeting on May 15 and there will be an opportunity for public comment segment.