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Residents clash over Google data center; commissioners delay Lone Tree Road closure pending water study
Summary
Barber County commissioners tabled a request from Google to close one mile of Lone Tree Road after multiple adjacent landowners and residents objected; the board asked for a county water study before taking further action.
Barber County commissioners on May 13 heard competing testimony about a proposed Lone Tree Road closure tied to a planned Google data center, and voted to delay the decision until a county water study is completed.
Counselor Molz opened the road hearing under Resolution #26-2. Google representative Andrew Harnish presented a site map and explained why Google requested the one-mile closure. Nearby landowner David Scripsick said he opposed closing the road, and several residents offered both support and opposition during public comment. After hearing arguments, Commissioner Bryan Quick moved "to table the closing of Lone Tree Rd until water study is done in about a month," Commissioner Mills seconded, and the motion passed.
Supporters told the board closing the road would aid project development and provide local benefits; opponents raised access and property concerns and urged the county to seek more information. Google representative Trystine Payfer later discussed contracting steps and an information webpage to coordinate with county staff. The board did not take a final vote on the road closure and set the matter to return after the water study.
