Commissioners consider countywide zoning guidance, letters to townships and a moratorium

Griggs County commissioners spent part of the Sept. 21 meeting discussing countywide zoning and how best to coordinate with townships that handle zoning in many parts of the county.

Commissioners noted several pressures — data centers, solar parks and other large developments — and said basic county guidance (for example, standard setbacks) could help protect county interests. One commissioner advocated for a countywide approach, while others recommended first consulting townships by sending a letter inviting them to a December meeting after harvest season.

The board previously discussed a six-month moratorium to provide time for drafting policy; commissioners said they will not rush a decision but will prepare outreach and consider where county-level guidance is appropriate. Staff will draft language for a letter to township officers and return with options for a coordinated approach.