Weld County considers zoning changes for data centers

Weld County, Colorado, is preparing for a pivotal vote on April 6 that could permit data centers in industrial zones across its unincorporated areas. This initiative stems from a substantial land acquisition by Global AI, which purchased approximately 500 acres on the outskirts of Greeley. Weld County Commissioner Jason Maxey stated the zoning update is proactive and no formal data center applications have been submitted. The proposed changes have sparked public interest and mixed reactions, particularly from community members like Patricia Garcia Nelson of Green Latinos. Nelson voiced concerns during public input meetings regarding potential environmental impacts, including excessive water usage and strain on the electrical grid. She, alongside others, is urging county leaders to pause the ordinance change to allow for a comprehensive review of its economic and environmental implications. Commissioners acknowledged these public concerns, with Maxey confirming that feedback from recent community meetings is being taken into consideration, despite the process following their normal procedural timeline. If approved, the zoning amendments would allow data centers in specific industrial areas of unincorporated Weld County, excluding residential and historic zones, though any actual project would still require a separate land use application.