Moffat County commissioners discuss data center moratorium, address transparency questions
Moffat County commissioners openly discussed proposing a moratorium on data center development due to strong public opposition and concerns over transparency. Commissioners Bohrer and Broom expressed support for a pause to gather information and ensure community buy-in. Residents criticized county officials, including Commission Chair Melody Villard, for not disclosing prior conversations with companies like Pure-Green and Toto Labs, despite Villard's defense of their handling of preliminary economic development inquiries.
Moffat County commissioners held an open discussion regarding a potential moratorium on data center development, responding to significant public transparency concerns. Commissioners Tony Bohrer and Donald Broom indicated their support for implementing a pause, suggesting it could last for two to five years, allowing the county to thoroughly develop regulations and secure broader public support.
This discussion follows a contentious August 5 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting where residents questioned county officials about undisclosed preliminary conversations with interested data center developers. Commission Chair Melody Villard defended the county's actions, asserting that officials had not denied contact. However, it was later confirmed that Villard had met with representatives from Pure-Green and Toto Labs and signed letters acknowledging their interest in redeveloping the Trapper Mine property for advanced computing and an industrial campus. Natural Resources Director Jeff Comstock and Planning and Zoning Director Candace Miller also engaged in separate discussions with these companies.
Residents, including Michael Lawson and Allison Anthony, accused the county of a lack of transparency, arguing that officials failed to provide clear answers to direct inquiries about prior developer engagements. Commissioner Bohrer acknowledged the county's communication shortcomings and apologized, although he clarified he had not personally met with the companies. Commissioner Broom stated he currently holds a neutral stance on the industry, citing a need for greater understanding.
While no formal moratorium was introduced or voted upon during the meeting, the discussion signaled the commissioners' willingness to consider halting development. The move aims to address resident concerns and enhance transparency in economic development processes, particularly as the county anticipates job and revenue losses from the impending closures of Craig Station and Trapper Mine, which necessitate exploring new economic opportunities.