Opponents Of Massive Data Center In Uinta County Launch Petition For Court Review
Opponents in Uinta County, Wyoming, have filed a petition for administrative review in District Court, challenging permits granted to Prometheus Hyperscale for a large data center. They allege non-transparent planning by county officials and Prometheus, and inadequate review of environmental impacts and resource strain. County officials and Prometheus deny the allegations, asserting the process was public and transparent.
A petition for administrative review has been filed with the Uinta County District Court against permits granted to Prometheus Hyperscale for a data center development near Evanston, Wyoming. Petitioners Christy Katzl, Wilhelm Katzl, and Marijke Rossi are seeking to set aside these permits, alleging that Prometheus Hyperscale and certain county officials engaged in non-disclosed planning.
The petition claims that county officials failed to adequately assess the project's impact on the electrical grid, water supplies, noise pollution, and wildlife, and that the public was denied transparent information. It also suggests familial ties between some county officials and Prometheus Hyperscale founder Trenton Thornock. Uinta County Commissioner Mark Anderson denied all allegations, stating his distant familial relationship does not pose a conflict of interest and that all meetings were publicly recorded work sessions.
Prometheus Hyperscale also issued a statement affirming its transparency throughout the permitting process, which included 13 safeguards and conditions in the Conditional Use Permit. Company President Trevor Neilson stated the appeal has "no merit." Katzl, a vocal opponent, expressed frustration with a "closed system" and emphasized using the court to hold officials accountable, citing concerns about water rights, property values, and a proposed worker camp.
In contrast, Lyman resident and business owner Eric Wyatt supports the project, viewing it as a crucial opportunity for economic diversification and local job creation in an area struggling with traditional industries. Wyatt acknowledged community concerns but believes they can be mitigated, asserting that Prometheus followed all legal requirements and public engagement efforts, despite low public meeting attendance.