Data center opponents question whether Cox’s executive order has ‘any teeth’

Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed an executive order aiming to establish a "higher bar" for data center development across the state, a direct response to significant public pressure surrounding the proposed Stratos Project in Box Elder County. The governor acknowledged a shift in his stance, having previously expressed frustration with delays in development.

The Stratos Project, backed by Kevin O'Leary, has faced intense scrutiny and protests over concerns about water usage, air quality, and long-term environmental impacts. The Box Elder Accountability Referendum (BEAR), a group opposing the project, expressed skepticism about the executive order's effectiveness, questioning if it has "any teeth." BEAR is also pursuing a legal challenge following the county's denial of its referendum request.

Box Elder County clarified that it has not approved, permitted, or authorized construction of a data center, with its prior actions limited to consenting to land inclusion in the MIDA project area. The county emphasized that the Stratos Project remains subject to state review and permitting. Governor Cox indicated support from legislative leaders, including Senate President Stuart Adams, and hinted at potential legislation in a special session in September to establish further statewide "guardrails" for data centers.

Opposition groups like BEAR remain committed to stopping the project, with their attorney suggesting the executive order may not affect MIDA-overseen projects. The county anticipates additional public engagement, including town hall-style meetings, and will continue to provide updates on its Stratos Project webpage.