How Alamosa County got into the AI data center business
Alamosa County Commissioners approved a special use permit for Strata Inc. to develop a container-based AI data storage system after a 2-1 vote, despite community concerns. The project is designed to use air-cooling and existing infrastructure, avoiding water consumption, and targets small-to-medium businesses. This decision followed public opposition and discussions regarding the project's scope and the broader implications of AI technology.
The Alamosa County Commissioners in Colorado approved a special use permit for Strata Inc. to develop a container-based AI data processing and storage system, despite community opposition and a split vote. Land Use Administrator Richard Hubler determined the project, which involves 12 computing containers, four backup generators, and five storage containers, qualified for a special use permit under the county's land use code, likening it to container-based self-storage due to its minimal landscape impact and operational needs.
Strata Inc. founder and CEO David Meyer plans to create a vertically integrated system for small and medium businesses, leasing servers through his own cloud platform. Meyer emphasized the project's design relies on air cooling and refrigeration, consuming no water, and will utilize existing electric and fiber optic infrastructure from San Luis Valley Rural Electric Cooperative and Jade, respectively.
Community concerns, particularly regarding water usage and the broader implications of AI technology, were raised at both the Alamosa County Planning Commission and Commissioners meetings. Planning board member Erin Minks and Commissioner Arlan Van Ry expressed reservations about the speed of the approval process given public unease. However, Commissioners Lori Laske and Vern Heersink supported the permit, leading to its approval on a 2-1 vote. Strata plans to invite community members to tour the facility to foster understanding and integration.