Boise to consider data center moratorium
Boise Mayor Lauren McLean has proposed a moratorium on large data centers within city limits, citing concerns about water consumption, energy use and impacts on local resources. The proposal will receive public comment at an upcoming Boise City Council meeting, while the mayor’s opposition is supported by the Sierra Club of Idaho.
Boise Mayor Lauren McLean proposed a moratorium on mega data center development within the city, saying large facilities could strain water supplies, increase energy costs and burden local communities. The proposal will be discussed at an upcoming Boise City Council meeting, where residents can provide public comment; Boise currently has no applications for such facilities.
McLean previously criticized Rhea Data’s proposed 3,200-acre project on federal land south of Boise. The Idaho Legislature has separately adopted requirements addressing infrastructure costs and water consumption for new large data centers, while Bannock County and Mountain Home have enacted temporary permitting moratoriums. Sierra Club of Idaho Director Lisa Young endorsed McLean’s proposal and urged other Idaho jurisdictions to consider similar measures.