Residents warn data centers could strain water and press for relief for long-unusable "zombie" lots

Public commenters at the Aug. 12 Pahrump Regional Planning Commission meeting spent much of the session pressing the commission on two interconnected issues: opposition to proposed data‑center development and long‑standing problems facing so‑called "zombie" or utility‑challenged lots.

"I've been in the water well drilling business. I know the effect it'll have on our ground water," said Angelina Jackson, who voiced worries that large data centers would deplete or damage the valley's aquifer and create noise and other livability problems. Deborah Thomas noted recent litigation elsewhere, saying a class‑action in rural Oregon alleged data‑center operations harmed water and residents "and the plaintiffs won." Those speakers and others urged commissioners to take the community pulse before approvals proceed.

Multiple callers also pressed the commission to prioritize an overlay ordinance to help property owners whose lots have been unusable for decades under current utility requirements. Patricia Robb asked the RPC to allow alternative ways to meet safety standards — "If alternative utilities work safely, then let the evidence decide" — arguing owners have been paying taxes but unable to develop or use their land.

Speakers described a range of remedies they want: a formal overlay zoning path for utility‑challenged lots, coordinated work with the Board of County Commissioners and the Army Corps (mentioned by the BOCC liaison in a staff report), and protections against perceived administrative overreach. A caller identifying herself as part of an organized group of zombie-lot owners warned the commission the group would pursue legal remedies, including a potential class action, if the county does not address owners' rights.

The meeting record shows strong local concern about the cumulative impacts of large industrial projects and a demand for clearer, faster remedies for long‑held parcels that residents say are being devalued. The commission did not take action on data‑center policy at this meeting; public commenters were told policy items not on the agenda would be considered only if agendized for a future meeting.