Montrose County Enacts Six-Month Data Center Moratorium
The Montrose County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on new data center facility applications, citing a lack of sufficient zoning regulations. This decision comes as many local governments across Colorado are implementing similar moratoriums due to public backlash over rising electricity prices, pollution, and tax breaks associated with data center development. Officials emphasized the need to develop comprehensive regulations before permitting further construction.
The Montrose County Board of Commissioners in Colorado has unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on new data center facility applications. This decision was made to allow the county time to develop adequate zoning regulations for data center developments, as stated by Montrose County Attorney Julie Andress and Commissioner Sue Hansen.
The board's rapid approval, taking less than two minutes, reflects a growing trend in Colorado. Many local governments are implementing similar moratoriums due to public opposition, which stems from concerns over rising electricity prices, increased pollution, and substantial tax breaks often granted to data center projects. Commissioner Hansen noted the importance of thoroughly understanding data center impacts before integrating them into county regulations.