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Board directs draft moratorium and review for large‑load data centers and similar projects
Summary
Facing rapid inquiries and resident concern about high‑electricity ‘large‑load’ projects, the board directed staff to draft a temporary moratorium ordinance (minimum 12 months) and research zoning, utility capacity, environmental and land‑use gaps, then return with recommended amendments; the motion passed unanimously.
The board directed staff to draft a temporary moratorium ordinance on “data centers” and other large‑load customers (facilities with substantial electricity, water or wastewater demand) while the county evaluates whether the comprehensive plan and land‑development code adequately regulate such sites. Commissioner McCann and others said the pause will allow time to examine infrastructure capacity, land‑use compatibility, environmental impacts, and best practices from other jurisdictions.
The motion asks staff, with county attorneys, to research state law (including recently proposed state definitions and the treatment of megawatt thresholds), to review industry standards and return with recommended amendments and a proposed moratorium duration; commissioners suggested 12 months as a reasonable minimum. The item passed unanimously after public commenters — many from neighborhoods — urged caution and study of water, traffic and environmental impacts.
