Residents urge closure of loopholes, independent studies during data‑center moratorium

Multiple public commenters told the zoning commission that a moratorium on large‑scale data centers should be used to develop strong, enforceable regulations and independent technical reviews. Sue Loisel told commissioners the issue "is not a routine code change" and asked that the county retain outside planners, utility experts and environmental specialists to draft regulations rather than relying only on internal review. "Any ambiguity, exemption, undefined term, or procedural gap could become a loophole," she warned.

Lisa Johnson, speaking for the Acreage Landowners Association, supported the moratorium and urged that groundwater protection be central to new rules because many area residents rely on private wells. She asked that independent noise, water‑demand and thermal‑impact studies be required and that battery energy storage systems (BESS) be included because of fire and end‑of‑life remediation concerns. Commenters asked that their submitted email and written materials be included in the official record and considered during the drafting process.