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County commissioner says data center moving forward as solar projects fell to setback rules
Summary
County Commissioner Hockaday told the Smith Valley advisory board that a proposed data center project is proceeding and noted prior solar proposals in Lyon County were blocked for failing setback requirements; Hudbay will also present on the Mason Project at the BOCC meeting tomorrow.
County Commissioner Hockaday told the Smith Valley Citizens Advisory Board on July 1 that a proposed data center in Lyon County is moving forward and that several earlier solar projects in the area were halted because they could not meet county setback rules.
“At least two possible solar projects in Smith Valley were shut down because they could not meet the required setbacks,” Hockaday said, and he added that the data‑center proposal is proceeding. When Chair Rusty Williams asked whether the data center was “a done deal,” Hockaday responded, “yes.” Hockaday said a workshop is planned for Aug. 3 to discuss water and power use for the proposals and that multiple applicants are before county planning.
Hockaday also briefed the board on other county business, saying the Board of County Commissioners will address large power lines at its meeting tomorrow and that Hudbay will present on the Mason Project. He flagged health concerns tied to high‑voltage transmission lines near populated areas. “There are health risks with high power lines and that is a concern,” Hockaday said.
Why it matters: the remarks signal county-level attention to substantial industrial projects — data centers and solar fields — and upcoming public meetings where residents can review details and file comments. Hockaday encouraged companies to present to the BOCC and the public so project details are on the record.
What’s next: Hockaday said the county will hold a workshop Aug. 3 focused on utility demands and planning, and Hudbay will appear before the BOCC at its meeting tomorrow.
