Missoula County Ready for Next Steps in Data Center Debate
Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - Missoula County is holding an informational session next week to give residents an inside look at a new study on commercial data centers and how they should be regulated with zoning rules.
The move comes six months after county commissioners put the brakes on a pending data center proposal to be located at the old Bonner Mill site, sparking community concerns about noise, power, and water use.
That project had already been shelved by the time the move came to the board for action.
READ MORE: Developer Backs Out of Bonner Data Center
County planners launched the study in July after commissioners put that one-year freeze on new data centers using emergency interim zoning laws. The study examines potential options to prevent or reduce heavy impacts, including massive power consumption, water quality, heat, and round-the-clock noise and vibration.
The meeting is set for next Tuesday, October 27th, at 6 p.m. in the Home Arts Building at the Missoula County Fairgrounds. Planning staff will give a brief presentation followed by a public Q-and-A, with questions limited to three minutes each.
Read more in advance
The full draft report goes live online Wednesday, October 21st, at missoulacountyvoice.com.
Planners will also present their findings to the Consolidated Land Use Board on November 4th, followed by a formal county commission public hearing on November 12th. Both meetings will offer in-person and virtual options, along with opportunities for public comment.
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