Spokane City Council to discuss emergency halt on new data center

Spokane City Council members are scheduled to debate an emergency ordinance for a one-year moratorium on data center construction. This discussion was prompted by Avista Utilities' announcement of a potential partnership with a large electricity customer, later confirmed to be a data center developer, which ignited significant community opposition across the Inland Northwest.

Three Spokane City Council members proposed the moratorium to halt new data center applications for a year, providing the city with time to establish stricter rules and coordinate with county and state officials on clear regulations. Council member Paul Dillon noted an overwhelming volume of public messages opposing data center development, with approximately 5,000 messages supporting a ban compared to only one in favor.

Community concerns center on the potential environmental impact of a major power user, particularly on the Spokane River and its aquifer, as well as rising utility rates and noise pollution. While acknowledging the potential for jobs and economic growth, Council member Dillon urged consideration of the long-term regional consequences, including the impact of AI on human work roles. Residents are invited to provide input before the City Council's scheduled action on the proposed moratorium on Monday, June 15.