Yakima County to consider temporary data center moratorium

Yakima County Commissioners are moving forward with plans to consider a six-month moratorium on data center development, following strong public opposition over potential environmental and resource impacts. Although Yakima County currently has no data centers and has not received any applications, residents expressed concerns about water usage, energy consumption, noise, and health impacts, especially given the region's ongoing drought conditions.

During a recent study session, County Planning Manager Tommy Carroll confirmed the absence of data center applications and noted that the county's existing code lacks specific provisions for such facilities, requiring a workaround if an application were to arrive. Coleen Anderson of 350 Yakima Climate Action and Dianna Woods, a former water resources employee, urged commissioners to enact a moratorium and establish comprehensive regulatory guidelines, particularly regarding water rights and energy sourcing.

Commissioner Kyle Curtis introduced a motion to direct staff to prepare a resolution for a six-month moratorium by August 11, which was unanimously approved by the three commissioners. The motion also included requests for economic, health, and agricultural impact studies to inform future permanent land-use changes. Commissioners LaDon Linde and Amanda McKinney echoed concerns about declining water tables and the industrialization of agricultural lands, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful regulatory framework.