Dozens of Tooele County residents oppose data centers at planning commission
Dozens of Tooele County residents attended a County Planning Commission meeting to oppose the development of data centers. The meeting focused on establishing a framework and guidelines for future data centers rather than an immediate project, and the discussion was ultimately tabled. Opponents also called for a statewide moratorium on data center construction.
The Utah data center discussion continued in Tooele County, where dozens of residents voiced their opposition during a County Planning Commission meeting. The meeting, which extended late into the night, was not about an existing data center project but rather concerned establishing a framework and land use guidelines for potential future data center developments in the county.
Residents like Amy Lawson expressed strong opposition, advocating for the preservation of Tooele County's quiet, peace, and land, with one person even holding a sign calling Utah "Utah's Dumping Ground." In contrast, Assistant County Manager Britany Lopez emphasized that the county's efforts are focused on responsible planning and smart growth, ensuring strong guidelines are in place to thoroughly evaluate any future proposals, protect residents and resources, and serve the county's long-term interests.
Dr. Brian Mench, representing Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment, called for a one-year moratorium on data centers across the state, citing the need for more research into their environmental footprint and potential health consequences. The Planning Commission ultimately tabled the discussion regarding Chapter 34, which pertains to data center frameworks in Tooele County.