Uinta County data center moves forward
The Uinta County Commission has unanimously approved a conditional use permit for Prometheus Hyperscale's proposed data center east of Evanston, Wyoming. The approval comes with 15 conditions addressing environmental standards, construction timelines, sales tax, and community impact. Public comments included both support and opposition for the project.
The Uinta County Commission has unanimously approved a conditional use permit for Prometheus Hyperscale's data center project east of Evanston, Wyoming. This decision follows a prior approval of an industrial subdivision rezone in June. Uinta County Attorney Loretta Howieson Kallas clarified that once a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is granted, its terms are largely fixed unless there are issues of malfeasance.
The approval includes 15 conditions agreed upon by the developer, Prometheus Hyperscale. Key requirements include initiating construction within five years, notifying the county upon commencement, and adhering to all federal, state, and local environmental quality standards, including the Wyoming Industrial Siting Act and Uinta County’s Land Use Plan. Prometheus Hyperscale must also ensure sales tax is imposed and received in Uinta County by designating it as the receiving location for all project-related goods.
Environmental stipulations require Prometheus Hyperscale to conduct dust abatement, report annual onsite water consumption, complete a computational fluid dynamic analysis to measure heat dispersal, and comply with DarkSky International Standards to minimize light pollution. The company is also responsible for maintaining two county roads, complying with OSHA noise pollution standards, and reimbursing the county for emergency services. The permit also includes conditions for a lease agreement between G&C Holdings LLC and Prometheus Wyoming I LLC.
During a public comment session at the Lyman Town Hall, residents expressed mixed views. Alex Rossi of Evanston presented a petition requesting more time for consideration due to environmental and financial concerns. Conversely, Lyman residents Eric Wyatt and Dustin Rollins, along with Robertson resident Brian Woody and Mikel Voss of Lyman, spoke in favor, highlighting the project's potential benefits for community growth. Lonetree resident Joe Hickey supported the project for tax breaks, while Linda Byers expressed concerns about negative impacts on tourism. Target Hospitality, a company vying for a permit for temporary housing for the data center's workforce, is scheduled to present to the county’s planning and zoning commission.