County study on data center impacts, regulations, underway
Missoula County has initiated a study to assess the impacts of data centers and explore regulatory options, following the adoption of a temporary one-year moratorium in early July. The study, led by the county's climate action program manager, will identify potential issues such as noise, air quality, and water usage, with a draft expected in eight weeks. The county aims to establish long-term zoning regulations before the moratorium expires next July, though state-level legislation could influence their efforts.
Missoula County has commenced a study into the impacts of data centers and potential regulatory frameworks, following the enactment of a one-year temporary moratorium on new and expanded data centers in early July. The study was mandated by state law, requiring initiation within 30 days of the moratorium's adoption.
Svein Newman, the county's climate action program manager, stated that staff began the study immediately. The initiative aims to verify the