Data center regulations among key topics at lengthy Raton Commission meeting

The Raton City Commission recently held a special work session to deliberate on potential zoning and ordinance revisions aimed at regulating high-utility users, particularly data centers. Discussions focused on developing a more comprehensive dark-sky ordinance and establishing clear definitions and regulations for data centers, drawing comparisons to how Los Lunas controls data center development through zoning.

Code Enforcement Officer Mac Gerry highlighted the importance of defining data centers and establishing regulations proactively. Commissioners reviewed factors such as electrical demand, citing the Lumen Regen facility's 1.8-megawatt usage, as well as noise levels, lighting impacts, and backup power systems. The city plans to draft these new regulations for commission review and legal analysis, potentially including utility monitoring requirements.

During public comments at the subsequent regular meeting, several residents voiced strong opposition to a proposed data center project, noting that over 300 residents have signed a petition against the development. Separately, the commission also moved forward with a water and sewer rate increase and approved the city's Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP) priorities.