Missoula County: proposed Bonner data center must meet on‑site or equivalent new renewable rules, special‑exception review if too close to homes

Missoula County commissioners and climate staff addressed a proposed data center in Bonner and reiterated county zoning rules that condition local approval on specific environmental and land‑use requirements.

Commissioner Dave Strowmire and staff recalled a prior bitcoin operation and explained the county’s zoning enacted seven years ago: crypto operations and data centers are allowed only in heavy industrial zones; they must either generate new renewable energy on‑site or secure equivalent new renewable electrons off‑site; they must use a state‑licensed electronic‑waste recycling facility; and, crucially, any facility proposed within 500 feet of a residential property boundary must seek a special‑exception review.

Those special‑exception hearings bring into scope noise, lighting, traffic and related impacts; the Missoula County Consolidated Land Use Board will determine whether to grant exceptions where zoning setbacks are not met. Newman noted that while the applicant has discussed starting sizes — he cited public statements of 3 to 10 megawatts and the possibility of later expansion — the county has not received a definitive filed size and any future growth remains speculative.

Why it matters: Commissioners framed the zoning as a way to allow data centers while ensuring they meet local standards and do not jeopardize county clean‑energy goals. Strowmire said the zoning is not an outright ban; rather, it is designed to require responsible behavior from data center operators.

What’s next: The applicant must provide specific project filings and, if within the 500‑ft buffer, apply for a special exception; planning staff and the Consolidated Land Use Board will evaluate compliance with the zoning criteria.

Transcript notes: Commissioners credited Diana Manetta, Jenny Dixon and Karen Hughes (named in the discussion) for earlier work on the zoning approach.