Iron County approves zoning changes allowing large-scale developments amid tribal opposition
The Iron County Commission unanimously approved a strategic development zone overlay ordinance that could allow large data centers and energy projects, despite opposition from the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah. The commission also ended the county’s data center application moratorium nearly a month early, while restoring a 30-day period for tribal review and comments.
The Iron County Commission in Cedar City, Utah, unanimously approved zoning changes that establish a strategic development overlay for large-scale projects, including potential data centers and energy developments. The vote also ended the county’s data center application moratorium nearly a month ahead of schedule, clearing the way for new applications.
Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah leaders, including Chairwoman Laurel Yellowhorse and Indian Peaks Band Council Member Tamra Borchardt-Slayton, criticized the commission for failing to conduct meaningful government-to-government consultation. Tribal representatives raised concerns about impacts on tribal lands, water, natural resources and future generations, while county officials said the ordinance addresses noise and water use and reinstated a 30-day tribal review period.