Fremont County implements data center moratorium
Fremont County Commissioners have enacted an emergency six-month moratorium on data center construction to allow time for the development of comprehensive regulations. This proactive measure addresses potential demands on local infrastructure, such as water and the power grid, despite no current data center inquiries in the county. The moratorium passed with a unanimous vote.
Fremont County Commissioners unanimously enacted an emergency six-month moratorium on data center construction to proactively develop regulations. County Attorney Eric Bellas confirmed no inquiries have been made regarding data center placement in the county, but the move addresses public and statewide concerns about the challenges and benefits of such facilities.
The resolution highlights the potential strain data centers can place on infrastructure, specifically water resources and the power grid. Commissioner Kevin Grantham emphasized the need for time to establish clear regulations for this type of land use, while Commissioners Dwayne McFall and Debbie Bell reiterated the goal of understanding both the economic benefits, like tax revenue, and the potential detriments for Fremont County residents. The moratorium temporarily halts all data center-related applications and permitting, allowing the planning and zoning department to draft comprehensive rules.
The article also referenced a GPU Smith report indicating significant water consumption by data centers nationally, including projected usage by major tech companies, to underscore the resource demands that the county aims to prepare for. Commissioners stated the action is not intended to prevent future development but to ensure it is managed responsibly.