Lee County is moving forward with plans to hire specialized legal counsel as officials work on future regulations for data centers. The Daily Democrat reports the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved beginning the search for a law firm with expertise in business, tax and contract law to help draft ordinances covering data centers, possible small nuclear reactors and other major development projects. Supervisor Garry Seyb says the county needs expert guidance as the issue becomes more complex.
The move follows the county’s one-year moratorium on new data centers and last week’s cease-and-desist order that halted work on the proposed Burlington Hill project near Fort Madison. County Attorney Ross Braden says specialized legal advice will help protect taxpayers and ensure future development agreements are in the county’s best interest. Officials say the search for a law firm is just beginning, and any contract will require public discussion and board approval.
