Regular City Council - Jun 09 2026

The City Council of Clinton, Iowa, held a regular meeting on June 9, 2026, with a significant focus on the proposed hyperscale AI data center project by QTS. The council conducted public hearings on various procurement matters, including rejecting bids for commercial facade improvements due to high costs and awarding a contract for an air handling unit replacement project. A major portion of the meeting was dedicated to extensive public commentary expressing concerns about the data center's environmental impact, water and electricity usage, noise pollution, property values, and transparency of the project. Numerous residents urged the council to impose a moratorium on data center development to allow time for thorough study and ordinance development. The council discussed and amended an ordinance to establish a moratorium of at least 120 days or until appropriate regulations are adopted, but a motion to waive the usual three readings for immediate adoption failed. The council agreed to continue deliberations on the ordinance in future meetings. The meeting also included routine approvals of minutes, claims, and appointments to boards and commissions. Overall, the meeting highlighted community apprehension about the data center project and the council's cautious approach to balancing economic development with public concerns and regulatory oversight.