Weld County advances data-center zoning rewrite after resident raises health and noise concerns

WELD COUNTY — The Weld County Board of County Commissioners approved on second reading an ordinance to repeal and reenact Chapter 23 of the county code to establish zoning rules for data centers.

Planning staff recommended adoption and told commissioners the board had recommended approval at the Jan. 26 meeting and that the Weld County Planning Commission had also voted to recommend approval on Feb. 3. No changes were proposed for the second reading; final reading was scheduled for Feb. 23, according to staff.

During the public hearing, Ken Brown of Water Valley, who identified himself as a real estate professional, said the subject property remains zoned I-1 (light industrial) on paper while many data centers nationally are located in I-2 (heavy industrial) zones. Brown said his research shows data centers can produce low-frequency noise and consume substantial energy and water, and he expressed concern that current county and federal standards might not prevent community health impacts. "Why would we as a county want to settle for the minimum?" he asked, urging a proactive approach rather than retroactive fixes.

Commissioners acknowledged Brown's concerns during discussion but moved forward with the ordinance. Commissioner Kevin Ross made the motion to approve on second reading; Commissioner Jason Maxey seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

Planning staff said the ordinance creates a countywide framework for evaluating data-center proposals rather than addressing any single project. The board did not specify additional conditions on the ordinance during the session.

The next scheduled step is final reading of the ordinance on Feb. 23, when the board will consider formal adoption as presented or with amendments.