The Rockwood City Council met Monday evening for a rescheduled session, finalizing new regulations that restrict future data centers exclusively to heavy industrial (M-1) zones.

The decision came during the second and final reading of a zoning ordinance. The approved measure marks a shift from earlier drafts considered months ago, which would have permitted data centers in light industrial areas. City officials noted that while no companies have expressed interest in building a facility within Rockwood, the ordinance establishes proactive guidelines in the event of future development. Currently, the only operational data center in Roane County is a Bitcoin-managed facility located near the former steel mill in Harriman.

In addition to the zoning vote, the council approved several key measures:

• Personnel: Authorized the hiring of a full-time Public Works laborer.

• Traffic Safety: Passed a resolution designating the open alleyway between N. Gateway Avenue and Elm Street as a one-way street.

• Infrastructure: Acknowledged a request to purchase and install a test rubber speed table on Black Hollow Road.