Butte commissioners discuss possibility of data center moratorium
The Butte-Silver Bow Council of Commissioners is considering a proposal for a moratorium on new data center construction. Commissioner Michele Shea submitted the proposal, seeking to direct County Attorney Matt Enrooth to draft the moratorium. This comes as residents and the group 406 People First, who had a ballot initiative rejected, continue to advocate for more community input and are awaiting a Montana Supreme Court decision.
The Butte-Silver Bow Council of Commissioners in Montana is actively considering a proposed moratorium on new data center construction. Commissioner Michele Shea introduced the proposal, seeking council support to direct County Attorney Matt Enrooth to draft the official moratorium. This initiative follows significant public concern regarding the rapid decision-making process for data center developments in the county, which many residents believe has lacked adequate community input.
Local residents, including Evan Barrett, a representative for the group 406 People First, voiced strong support for the moratorium at a recent meeting, emphasizing the need to "buy time" for the community to understand and adjust to these developments. This local discussion occurs concurrently with 406 People First's ongoing legal battle; the group is awaiting a decision from the Montana Supreme Court after their ballot initiative, aimed at making data center development a votable issue, was rejected in district court due to a signature deadline dispute.