Goldwater Institute Calls Pima County’s Data Center Ban Illegal
The Pima County Board of Supervisors approved a four-month moratorium on new data center developments while the county updates its zoning rules. The Goldwater Institute called the moratorium illegal and urged the county to rescind it, citing property-rights protections and potential litigation risks.
The Pima County Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 to impose a four-month moratorium on new data center developments in unincorporated areas while officials revise zoning regulations addressing issues such as water and energy use, noise, and proximity to residents. Supervisor Jennifer Allen said the pause would give the county time to establish a clearer regulatory process, while Supervisor Rex Scott said the moratorium does not affect Project Blue, a data center already under construction.
The Goldwater Institute sent the county a letter arguing that the moratorium violates Arizona law and the state’s Private Property Protection Act. Attorney Jon Riches said the county cannot halt otherwise lawful development merely to study the industry or prepare zoning amendments. Supervisors Steve Christy and Scott also raised legal and financial concerns, with Christy warning that potential lawsuits could expose county taxpayers to substantial compensation costs. County officials are considering a response and expect to complete the zoning update by the end of the year.