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Harmony to require Environmental Assessment Worksheet; developer to pay for EIS if triggered
Summary
The joint bodies agreed the draft ordinance will require an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) for proposed data-center projects; if the EAW determines an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is needed, the developer must complete and fund it.
Harmony's joint planning session devoted substantial time to environmental review options and agreed on a two-step approach: require an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) for proposed data-center projects and require a developer-funded Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) if the EAW shows one is necessary.
Hurley explained differences between an EAW and an EIS, including timelines and costs, and participants noted concerns about groundwater and uncertainties associated with some data-center technologies. After reviewing an estimated EAW timeline of roughly four to six weeks, the group agreed the City would require an EAW; if the EAW shows an EIS is required, the ordinance will obligate the developer to conduct and pay for the EIS.
The approach aims to ensure appropriate environmental diligence without imposing EIS costs in every case. The requirement will be included in the legal-drafting instructions for outside counsel and then reviewed formally by Planning & Zoning and the City Council.
