Club 20 director states Moffat County has been approached about data centers
Moffat County officials have reportedly been approached by several companies regarding potential data center development, despite earlier statements denying any formal applications. Local residents have expressed overwhelming opposition to such projects, leading the Moffat County Planning and Zoning Commission to initiate a review of existing county regulations and zoning related to data centers. The county staff is also working on adjustments to their development plans.
Club 20 Executive Director Wade Haerle revealed in an interview that Moffat County officials have engaged in preliminary contact with companies interested in data center development, a claim that contradicts earlier statements by the county's Planning and Zoning Department. Haerle indicated these discussions are often under non-disclosure agreements, preventing him from identifying the companies involved. The interested companies are reportedly examining sites in Western Colorado, particularly those with decommissioned or soon-to-be-closed coal-fired power plants, due to existing electrical infrastructure.
The revelation comes after local residents overwhelmingly voiced opposition to data center development at an August 5 meeting of the Moffat County Planning and Zoning Commission. In response to public concern and the potential for development, the commission adopted a resolution to begin a research-based review of data centers and their alignment with current county regulations and zoning ordinances. Planning and Zoning Director Candace Miller had previously stated the department had no formal applications or projects under review, a discrepancy that Haerle's comments on preliminary contact and NDAs may explain.
Club 20, which is neither supportive nor opposed to data centers, is collaborating with Moffat County, Colorado Mesa University, and the Governor's Office of Just Transition to host a community meeting. This event aims to explore the potential benefits and concerns associated with data center development, including impacts on jobs, training, noise, light pollution, wildlife, and overall economic development. The Craig Press is actively seeking clarification from county officials regarding the differing accounts of engagement with data center developers.