Spokane County hosts public data center hearings
Spokane County held public hearings regarding data centers after county commissioners enacted a six-month moratorium on land use and permit applications for new data centers. Dozens of residents attended to provide feedback, which will be used by the planning commission to recommend new rules for data center development.
Spokane County hosted a public hearing on data centers, marked by tense moments as members of the planning commission tried to maintain order amidst public interruptions. Dozens of Spokane County residents gathered to voice their opinions on data center developments.
This hearing was the first in a series of meetings organized by the Spokane County Planning Commission to collect public feedback. The meetings follow a recent decision by county commissioners to impose a six-month moratorium on land use and permit applications for data centers.
Speakers at the hearing emphasized the opportunity for Spokane County to lead in establishing a data center ordinance that could serve as a framework for other communities facing similar issues. The goal is to "get it right" and set a standard that best benefits Spokane. The planning commission will use the public feedback to formulate recommendations for county commissioners, who will then establish permanent rules for data center development.