Lamar City Council meeting of October 12, 2026 included input from audience members, involved moratorium discussion
The Lamar City Council approved an 18-month moratorium on data center development after nine residents spoke against allowing data centers in the community. The moratorium will give the city time to develop regulations with input from council members, residents and county representatives.
Lamar City Council approved an 18-month moratorium on data center development during its Oct. 12 meeting, shortening the 24-month pause previously discussed. City Attorney Lance Clark had advised that a six- to 12-month moratorium would reduce potential legal exposure, while Mayor Kirk Crespin said the pause was needed to develop legally defensible guidelines for future proposals.
Nine residents spoke during public comment, citing concerns about water use during drought, pollution, noise, wildlife, agricultural impacts and limited local economic benefits. Crespin said the company that initially approached Lamar had ended its discussions amid community opposition, but another developer could return. The council agreed to form a committee of council members, residents and county representatives, chaired by Councilmember Headlee, to help create data center regulations and gather additional public input.