Osage County commissioners impose one‑year moratorium on data‑center applications

Osage County commissioners on March 10 adopted Resolution 2026‑03, placing a temporary moratorium on acceptance of applications “relating to the establishment, operation, or expansion of data centers” in the county’s unincorporated areas while staff and the planning and zoning commission review the comprehensive plan and zoning rules. The resolution takes effect after publication and was set to remain in force until 03/10/2027 unless the board takes further action.

The measure followed an extended public‑comment period in which residents urged tighter scrutiny. Diane Denham Rowe of Carbondale warned of environmental and health risks, saying: "How can it possibly benefit residents of our county?" The board and county counselor discussed legal timing and recommended revisiting the moratorium annually so the county can document studies and policy work that justify any extension.

County counsel and staff framed the moratorium as a pause to allow planning staff to draft or update regulations rather than an absolute prohibition. Chair moved the resolution, which was seconded and carried by a recorded voice tally of three ayes. The resolution also directs planning and zoning to research regulatory options and report back to the commission for possible code changes.

Supporters on the dais said the temporary pause is intended to give staff time to study federal and state policy trends and to develop enforceable local standards; opponents cautioned the county to document progress during the moratorium period to reduce legal risk. The board calendared an annual review and asked staff to return findings in advance of the March 2027 expiration.