Silver’s P&Z endorses town data center moratorium
The Silver City Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously endorsed a proposed one-year moratorium on data center development, though no data center applications have been submitted. A town ordinance is expected to go before the Town Council, while officials and residents cited water use, pollution and the need for data center-specific regulations.
Silver City’s Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously endorsed a yearlong pause on data center development, despite acknowledging that the town likely lacks sufficient land for a large facility and has received no applications. Community Development Director Susan Mittelstadt said the moratorium would give town officials time to study the industry and develop appropriate regulations.
Councilor Angela Salaiz drafted an ordinance modeled on a moratorium adopted by Socorro County and expects to present it to the Town Council. Mayor Simon Wheaton-Smith and commissioners supported the measure as a way to replace speculation with factual analysis, while resident Steve Maxon opposed data centers, citing the area’s water shortage, pollution risks and limited long-term employment benefits. Grant County commissioners have separately approved a notice of intent to adopt a similar one-year moratorium.