Yellowstone County commissioners make move to gain more control over data centers
Yellowstone County commissioners are seeking to clarify Montana's Right to Compute Act to preserve local authority over data center zoning, permitting, and public health reviews. This move comes amidst public backlash regarding a data center under construction in Broadview by Quantica. The proposed changes would not affect the Broadview project as construction has already begun.
Yellowstone County commissioners are actively pursuing methods to regain regulatory authority over data center developments within their jurisdiction, a local effort that mirrors broader national discussions. They have drafted a letter to the Yellowstone County legislative delegation, requesting clarification of the state's Right to Compute Act. The commissioners specifically seek to ensure the act preserves counties' traditional powers in regulating data centers through local zoning, permitting processes, and addressing public health concerns.
Commissioner Mark Morse cited the potential for new local approval requirements, such as conditional use permits, which would enable local government agencies to mandate specific questions be answered by data center developers. This initiative stems from public opposition, notably from the grassroots organization Yellowstone County Voices, concerning a data center currently under construction in Broadview.
Yellowstone County Voices had previously attempted, unsuccessfully, to put the Broadview data center project on the November ballot. However, Morse confirmed that any amendments to the Right to Compute Act, if passed, would not impact the Quantica data center in Broadview, as construction has already commenced.