Data center debate coming to Douglas
Douglas County officials are discussing how to manage data center development, as current code does not allow them and several inquiries have been made. The county plans to establish clear regulations by November, focusing on the responsible use of water and power. A temporary halt on development is being considered while an ordinance is drafted.
Douglas County planning commissioners are actively discussing how to incorporate data centers into their development code, as Principal Planner and Manager Kate Moroles O'Neill informed them that data centers are currently an unallowed use. The county aims to finalize an ordinance by November to address future data center development, with a strong emphasis on responsibly managing precious resources like water and power.
Planning Commissioner Laurie Lile raised the issue, urging proactive measures to avoid being unprepared for potential projects. Chairman Paul Bruno supported a "pause button" on development until a suitable ordinance is in place, ensuring community benefits are prioritized. This local debate follows a tentative 3-1 vote by Lyon County commissioners to rezone 505 acres for Copia Power's proposed Monarch Data Center, a significant project that includes eight two-story data center buildings and associated infrastructure, which faced public testimony both for and against it.