‘Do the right thing’: Residents oppose potential data center in Tooele County
During a public hearing in Tooele County, Utah, residents voiced strong opposition to a potential data center project and a proposed Chapter 34 ordinance designed to set guidelines for such developments. Citing concerns over water and power usage, residents advocated for a moratorium. The planning commission ultimately tabled the ordinance and two associated plat applications, indicating further review is needed.
A Tooele County Planning Commission meeting in Utah concluded late tonight after extensive public comments, primarily focused on opposition to data center developments. According to reporter Jordan Tracy, the meeting, which began at 6:00 PM, was packed with residents expressing "fullthroat opposition" to any plan that would allow data centers in their community, leading to moments of contention.
While no specific data center application was up for a vote, the agenda included a discussion of Chapter 34, an ordinance designed to establish "guard rails" for future data center projects. These proposed guidelines included limits on water, power, and size. Residents argued that the ordinance did not go far enough and called for a moratorium on data centers, though the county currently operates under a "makeshift moratorium" by not accepting applications until official code is in place.
Ultimately, the planning commission tabled Chapter 34, opting to take public comments and commission discussions into account, particularly concerning whether the proposed guard rails were sufficient. Additionally, two plat applications, which residents feared could lead to future data center projects, were also tabled and not approved. Opposing residents left the meeting with mixed feelings, acknowledging the need to continue their advocacy against data center developments.