City Council Unanimously Decides to Appeal BLM Data Center Decision
The Boulder City Council has unanimously voted to appeal the Bureau of Land Management's decision to permit a data center on BLM land within the city's jurisdiction. The City argues that the BLM failed to consult with them or provide adequate public input as required by federal law. The City Attorney will submit the appeal by July 27, 2026.
The Boulder City Council voted unanimously on July 14, 2026, to appeal the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) decision to permit a data center on federal land within the city's jurisdiction. The City of Boulder City asserts that the BLM did not adequately consult with the city or provide sufficient opportunity for public input on the approved data center project, violating federal law.
During the meeting, City Attorney Brittany Walker clarified that proper engagement from the BLM, as mandated by federal law, would have afforded the City a more meaningful chance to provide input. Council member Steve Walton expressed surprise at the BLM's conclusion that a data center project is comparable to a solar power generation and battery energy storage project. Council member Denise Ashurst described the BLM's decision as "out of the norm" and requested ongoing updates from the City Attorney, while Council member Sherri Jorgensen highlighted the bipartisan nature of the issue and her disbelief in the decision.
City Attorney Brittany Walker is tasked with submitting the formal appeal on or before July 27, 2026, challenging the federal agency's approval.