Public Services Committee meets on data center moratorium

The Cheyenne Public Services Committee recently convened to further discuss a proposed 12-month moratorium on new data center construction. The meeting saw significant public engagement, with community members offering over two hours of testimony both in favor of and against the proposed pause. The City Council chambers were filled with residents on both sides of the issue. The proposed ordinance would not affect data centers already under construction but would halt new projects for a year if enacted. Proponents expressed concerns about unchecked development, stating "We know that Wyoming is open for business, but we're not for sale." Conversely, opponents argued that such a ban would simply push development to areas with fewer regulations, suggesting "These data centers will be built, if not here then somewhere with a rubber stamp ready, and far fewer safeguards." Committee members acknowledged the valid questions raised, indicating a need for further deliberation.