Young County residents press commissioners for stronger protections in Tapadero solar and potential data‑center deals

Young County commissioners spent large portions of their Dec. 20 session hearing public concerns about a proposed Tapadero solar pilot agreement and separate data‑center proposals, as residents demanded clearer, enforceable protections for noise, lighting, construction impacts and long‑term public costs.

In extended public comment, Hailey Steele, who said her property borders a proposed data‑center site, told the court: “It’s my backyard. I will drive past it every single day,” and urged commissioners to “ask real questions and demand real transparency” about environmental studies, water use and infrastructure (Hailey Steele, public comment). Jolene McFadden, a ranch owner, argued the county risks permanent damage to wildlife, views and rural quality of life if large projects proceed without stronger local conditions: “You are allowing these people with money and big ideas to steal our investment,” she said (Jolene McFadden, public comment).

County staff and elected officials described how the draft pilot agreement is structured and why some numbers are presented as…