Linn Supervisors Reject Alliant Gas Plant Rezoning

Linn County supervisors unanimously rejected a rezoning request for Alliant Energy subsidiary Interstate Power and Light’s proposed 720-megawatt Morgan Valley Energy Center, a natural-gas plant intended in part to serve area data centers. The decision followed a 3-3 tie at the county Planning and Zoning Commission and more than six hours of public discussion. Supervisors said the proposal did not meet county planning standards, citing environmental and public-safety concerns, incomplete infrastructure and water plans, and unanswered questions about costs and projected demand; residents had also raised concerns about emissions, air quality, noise and wastewater. Supporters argued reliable electricity is needed for regional economic growth, while Alliant said the plant would meet federal air-quality requirements and be monitored after construction. The county’s decision is advisory to the Iowa Utilities Commission, which has final authority and must consider, but is not bound by, the county’s findings.