Archuleta County Board approves data center moratorium
The Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on data center development in the county. The decision was driven by concerns over significant power and water usage by data centers, which Commissioner Veronica Medina noted could strain the county's infrastructure and water resources. The county plans to explore taking the matter to voters for a potential long-term ban.
The Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) unanimously passed Resolution 2026-47 on June 16, enacting a six-month moratorium on data centers within the county. The decision, made during a regular meeting in Arboles, was initiated by Commissioner Veronica Medina.
Commissioner Medina raised concerns during a BoCC work session earlier that day, citing discussions with other counties about the high power and water demands of data centers. She expressed doubts that Archuleta County's current infrastructure and water supply could support such facilities, emphasizing Colorado's critical water challenges. Medina indicated that while technology may evolve, the immediate need is to protect the county's resources.
The commissioner noted that a six-month moratorium is the maximum duration the county can impose at one time. She suggested the county might pursue a long-term ban through a community vote and further public engagement.