Board briefed on data centers and told to consider short moratoriums and tailored ordinances

Samantha told the board about a Springfield briefing on data centers and related infrastructure. The presenter, Andy Kite, advised that counties should limit the length of moratoriums and move quickly when studying ordinances so the state does not preempt local controls. He told members counties typically have limited authority over large‑scale data centers but can adopt measures such as setbacks, decommissioning rules, noise studies and reimbursement provisions for emergency services.

Board members discussed whether battery storage should be folded into the county’s existing solar and wind ordinance or handled by a separate ordinance tailored to what the county can legally regulate. Members raised enforcement concerns at existing solar installations, including blocked entrances and debris that prevented access by emergency responders, and asked staff to clarify whether the current solar ordinance includes reimbursement for emergency response and building inspection authority.

Samantha said she would share slides from the Springfield briefing and recommended the county reach out to Andy Kite or other drafters to schedule ordinance drafting assistance. No vote was taken; members asked staff to return with draft language and options for review.