Local coalition asks Crawford County to extend wind/solar moratorium and add data centers, Bitcoin

Representatives of the Crawford County Coalition Against Wind and Solar asked Crawford County commissioners to extend the county’s moratorium on wind and solar development by one year and to expand it to include data centers, Bitcoin mining and other crypto facilities.

Becky (identified at the hearing as representing the coalition) said the extension would give planning and zoning staff time to complete the comprehensive plan and to craft regulations that reflect community concerns. "We would like another year just to give planning and zoning a fair chance at getting this done," the speaker said, arguing an extension could be rescinded earlier if rules are adopted sooner.

Commissioners noted the legal mechanics: a resolution extending a moratorium can be rescinded at any time and would allow the county to study noise, safety and siting issues tied to engines, battery systems and continuous-power generators. Chairman and county staff reminded the public the moratorium is a temporary pause so officials can develop regulations and hold hearings; staff outlined that any extension would need a formal resolution drafted and acted on by the commission.

What happens next: The coalition said it will return with language for the resolution; county staff said a resolution would be drafted if commissioners direct it and that the commission could shorten or rescind the moratorium earlier than the requested year if planners complete their work sooner.