Washington County Commissioner To Propose Temporary Pause On New Data Center Development

Washington County Commissioner Nafisa Fai is set to propose a temporary pause on new data center and AI computing facility development and permitting within the county's jurisdiction. The proposal, scheduled for discussion by the Board of County Commissioners, also seeks to halt related applications and approvals handled by Clean Water Services, the county's water resource management agency. Fai's initiative is aimed at allowing county officials to conduct a thorough assessment of the cumulative impacts of rapid data center expansion on sanitary and stormwater systems, water and energy use, electrical grid capacity, land use, and infrastructure.

Commissioner Fai emphasized the need to understand the full picture, including the distribution of financial benefits and costs among the county, schools, and other public agencies. She stated, "Before we approve more, we should understand the complete picture. That means asking not only whether a project can be accommodated, but whether our policies protect public infrastructure, safeguard taxpayers and deliver a fair and measurable net community benefit." This move aligns with Oregon Governor Tina Kotek's expressed support for locally adopted moratoriums while the state explores a broader framework. The proposed pause would not affect cities within Washington County or their independent land-use authority.