By Emma Nelson
Inver Grove Heights is in the spotlight again as its City Council considers changes to the moratorium on data center development. Nearly two months after approving a one-year pause that includes a proposed center on Carmen Avenue, leaders are taking steps that could clear the way for that very project.
Where Things Stand
In late June, the Council voted 3-2 to enact a moratorium on new data centers, including the plan by developer QLevr to build a roughly 50,000-square-foot facility at 5842 (or 5890) Carmen Avenue East. The moratorium was meant to give the city time to study environmental and neighborhood effects, even as the developer has threatened litigation, citing possible damages of up to $150 million if the project is blocked.
Since then, residents have petitioned for an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW), gathering enough signatures to require review under state rules. City officials also reviewed consultant findings confirming the project is exempt from a full EAW, though community members remain concerned about noise, electricity consumption, and traffic.
Possible Shift in Direction
On August 10, the City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance that could remove the proposed Carmen Avenue data center from the moratorium. Two more readings remain before that change could take effect. The second reading is on the agenda for the meeting set for August 24, when the public will again be invited to comment in person and via email.
What Residents Can Do
- Submit thoughts or questions by email to the City Clerk before noon on August 24 so they’re included in the public record.
- Attend the August 24 council meeting to speak in person during the public comment period.
- Monitor documents posted by the City—especially any updates related to environmental studies or attorney guidance—since late filings and litigation risks are key factors in council deliberations.
This outcome will affect more than developers. Homeowners, renters, neighboring communities—including those in South St. Paul—are keeping a close eye on what kind of precedent this might set for future land use decisions in Inver Grove Heights.