Unexpected data center component causes council committee to vote against proposed annexation

The Cheyenne City Council's Public Services Committee recently voted against an ordinance to annex 1,260 acres west of Cheyenne, a move intended to pave the way for a new data center. The proposal by developer ViaWest Group and builder Skybox Datacenters sparked significant public outcry after community members learned the true purpose of the annexation, which had not been fully disclosed during an earlier public hearing on April 13. During the committee meeting, 21 residents voiced strong opposition, citing concerns about the industrial development's impact on Cheyenne's natural beauty, potential air pollution, rising cost of living, and incomplete environmental studies. Patricia McCoy, a Cheyenne resident, emphasized that such development would erode the "soul of our community" amidst an "unchecked explosion of growth." Despite explanations from Tom Glissmeyer of ViaWest Group, who highlighted long-term job creation and local ownership, and Jack O'Neill of Skybox Datacenters, who detailed a fully closed-loop water system and 100% electricity cost coverage by Black Hills Energy, the committee members remained swayed by public sentiment. The committee ultimately voted 2-1 against the annexation, with Councilman Mark Rinne being the sole supporter. This committee vote is a recommendation for the full City Council, which will address the matter at upcoming meetings. O'Neill indicated that if the annexation fails, Skybox may still pursue the project under county regulations.