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Planning commission extends moratorium on large-scale alternative energy projects for two years
Summary
The commission voted to extend Resolution 060624 — a moratorium on certain large-scale alternative-energy developments — for two years from July 1, 2026. The public hearing drew multiple residents urging careful study and balanced input before any regulations are adopted.
The Dickinson County Planning Commission voted to accept Resolution 060624 and extend the county’s moratorium on certain large-scale alternative energy projects for two years, from July 1, 2026.
Commissioners moved to extend the moratorium as written; Mary Martin, the county counselor, advised that moratoria are more legally defensible when grounded in a clear administrative record tied to public health, safety and welfare and when their duration is finite and evidence-based. "To the extent you can put a finite duration on it, that is better," Martin told the commission during the discussion.
Commissioners debated whether to include data centers in the moratorium or treat data centers separately; several said the issues are distinct and recommended separate review processes. The commission ultimately extended Resolution 060624 as written (which does not include data centers) while separately tabling TXT-2602 for additional study and expert input.
The chair opened a public hearing on the moratorium. Several residents spoke during the hearing. Lorie Hambrite said Dickinson County’s land is overwhelmingly agricultural and urged the commission to "study this" and not rush to adopt changes that could affect farmland. Other speakers asked for balanced presentations that include both proponents and opponents of large projects and asked the commission to ensure public input is part of drafting any future zoning changes.
Outcome and next steps: The moratorium extension passed by voice/hand vote. Staff said public comments will be included in the record and that commissioners will receive model ordinances and technical studies to inform future zoning decisions. The extension pauses permitting of listed technologies covered by Resolution 060624 while staff and the commission compile analyses and draft any proposed regulations.
