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Erie advisory board hears staff briefings on resilience plan, drought and looming data-center bills
Summary
Staff told the Sustainability Advisory Board the town’s Resilience Action Plan is slated for council adoption on March 10, warned of an unusual winter drought and flagged state data-center bills and developer interest in battery-storage projects as matters to watch locally.
At its March 4 meeting the Erie Sustainability Advisory Board heard a series of staff briefings on the town’s Resilience Action Plan, local drought conditions and several developments that could affect municipal planning.
Staff told the board the Resilience Action Plan is scheduled for adoption by the town council on March 10 and that the document is framed as aspirational recommendations rather than a mandate. The staff update asked members to watch for the plan on the council’s consent agenda.
Board members were warned the region is experiencing an unusual winter drought. Staff explained that the town draws supply from several sources and that Northern Water is the largest supplier; members were urged to avoid turning on irrigation for turf and, when needed, to water trees and plants by hand.
Members also discussed state legislation related to data centers. Staff reported multiple bills in the current session: one appeared unlikely to pass while another seemed more likely and would, if adopted, give municipalities greater authority to set local requirements for data-center siting and operations. Board members noted some municipalities have imposed moratoriums while state lawmakers consider frameworks.
The group also said developers and investors have inquired about siting battery-storage projects in Erie, with one rough project size noted at about 60 acres. Safety concerns about lithium-ion battery storage were raised; one member said fire-safety training and placement considerations are important if such projects move forward.
Staff updates also covered local program logistics: a Front Range Landfill tour offered to board members on March 9, a Green Business breakfast for local owners the following week, Slow the Flow and turf-replacement program sign-ups, and a second-annual compost giveaway scheduled for March 28.
Board members asked to coordinate outreach with HOAs and schools and to identify point people for priority projects. Several members suggested partnering with existing education providers such as EcoCycle for school programming and highlighted barriers such as bus costs and curriculum scheduling for field trips.
The board adjourned at 7:28 p.m.; the town council adoption of the Resilience Action Plan was expected on March 10.
