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Commissioners eye potential data center, warn about AI reliance
Summary
Commissioners discussed a potential data center project that proponents say could create 600 jobs and generate $100 million annually in tax revenue for Natrona County; colleagues said they will investigate and cautioned against overreliance on AI in policymaking.
Commissioners used their reports section to flag a possible economic-development opportunity and voice policy cautions.
One commissioner said they had been invited to view data centers in Cheyenne and that proponents of a potential Natrona County data center claim the project could bring as many as 600 jobs and generate "$100,000,000 a year in taxes to Natrona County." The commissioner said they planned to gather more information and asked staff to examine water, electricity and other infrastructure implications before any formal proposal arrives.
Other commissioners cautioned about the risks and limits of local authority over utilities and urged careful study. Commissioner North voiced concern about automated decisionmaking, saying, "I think there is a possibility out there that we over rely on AI and don't educate ourselves enough," and urged caution in using AI as a basis for public decisions.
The board did not take action on any data-center proposal during the meeting; commissioners said they will continue fact‑finding and report back when more information is available.
