No pause on data centers for Cheyenne

The Cheyenne City Council voted 8-1 on Tuesday against a proposed one-year moratorium on new data center development, rejecting a measure introduced by Councilor Mark Moody. The decision followed hours of public testimony from residents and stakeholders, with supporters of the moratorium raising concerns about water usage, noise pollution, and long-term environmental impacts on the city and wildlife.

Opponents of the moratorium, including some city councilors and community members, argued that data centers are crucial for bringing jobs to Cheyenne and preventing youth from leaving the state for economic opportunities. Councilor Ken Esquibel emphasized that tax rates, environmental concerns, and permitting primarily fall under the jurisdiction of the state Legislature, the Department of Environmental Quality, and the Industrial Siting Council, respectively, suggesting the city government is not equipped to halt the industry.

Despite the rejected moratorium, some councilors acknowledged the public discussion has highlighted resident concerns. Councilor Jeff White expressed pride in Wyoming's role as a leader in data center development, setting a standard for others. The city council plans to consider annexing 1,200 acres for a new business park that could house another data center, while Laramie County commissioners are evaluating a proposed 800-unit workforce housing project, indicating continued growth.