Missoula County Stops Data Centers for a Year to Protect Health and Nature

Missoula County officials have unanimously voted to pause the construction or expansion of data centers across the county for up to one year. The decision comes amid concerns that these facilities could harm public health, water supplies, and local ecosystems.

Key Points

• Scope: The temporary ban applies to all county areas but does not cover the city of Missoula.
• Current Zoning: City planners note that data centers could only be built in heavy industrial zones—none exist within Missoula’s limits.
• Existing Rules: County regulations already restrict data center sites to industrial zones and require renewable energy, waste recycling, and special permits near homes.

Community Response

• Over 30 residents spoke at public meetings, urging a longer hold on data center projects.
• Concerns highlighted include heat, noise, and water usage potentially damaging the region’s aquifer and wildlife.

Official Statements

• Commissioner Dave Strohmaier praised the county’s methodical approach and announced a new study to begin within 30 days, assessing emergency needs and risk mitigation.
• Commissioner Josh Slotnick acknowledged that 2021 zoning was adequate then but must be updated for today’s technology, urging residents to stay engaged and lobby state lawmakers in 2027 as AI companies may push for looser rules.

Background

• The move follows a 2021 regulation addressing energy use and noise from cryptocurrency mining. Experts note those rules do not cover newer data center impacts such as emissions from generators and constant low‑frequency noise.
• A recent proposal for a data center in Bonner was halted after the property owner withdrew support, prompting the moratorium. County planner Jennie Dixon cited this case as a need for updated guidelines.

Broader Context

• In other Montana counties, voters are collecting signatures to force public approval of data center projects.
• The Yellowstone County Commission has filed a lawsuit challenging the validity of such petitions.