Spokane County legislators continue data center conversations
Spokane County commissioners approved a pause on land-use and permit applications for data centers through June 2027 or until a zoning text amendment is completed. Residents at a public meeting in Airway Heights raised concerns about contaminated water wells and potential environmental impacts, while the county Planning Commission works on permitting rules.
Spokane County has paused land-use and permit applications for data centers through June 2027, unless the county completes its related zoning text amendment sooner. The action follows continued community discussions about potential data centers and other large-load facilities in the county.
At a public meeting in Airway Heights, West Plains residents cited contaminated water wells and broader environmental concerns. The Spokane County Planning Commission is drafting a zoning ordinance establishing procedures and requirements for future data center permits. County officials said several companies have expressed interest, but none has submitted an application under the current process.