Pocatello AI data center proposal denied
A proposal for an AI data center by Lex Developments, LLC in Pocatello, Idaho, was denied by the city's Hearing Examiner. The denial followed a public hearing with significant testimony and written comments, citing inadequate information on environmental impacts and public facility capacity. The developer has 14 days to appeal the decision.
Pocatello Hearing Examiner Kathleen Lewis has denied a conditional use permit request from Gus Schultz, representing Lex Developments, LLC, for an AI data center on River Park Way. The decision came after 120 written comments and over 90 testimonies during a public hearing on May 14.
Lewis determined that the proposal failed to meet standards under Chapter 17.02.130 D of the Pocatello Municipal Code, as AI data centers are not explicitly covered in the city's use classifications. The analysis highlighted that the application did not adequately address the project's ability to be served by public facilities and services, particularly concerning power, water, and wastewater capacity, or air quality. It also found that potential adverse environmental impacts and long-term operational effects were not sufficiently studied.
While the request did align with some code criteria, such as consistency with city goals and harmony with surrounding structures, it lacked critical information, including potential chemical discharge and detailed water demand calculations. Gus Schultz was unreachable for comment regarding Lex Developments' next steps, which could include submitting a new application, seeking reconsideration, or appealing the denial within 14 days.