Sedgwick County extends interim pause on data‑center permits to Dec. 24, sets Dec. 2 checkpoint

The Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to extend the county’s interim development control on data centers through Dec. 24, 2026, and scheduled a commission checkpoint for Dec. 2 to review progress.

County counsel Kirk Sponse told commissioners the three‑month extension is intended to allow planning staff time to complete a review and produce draft regulations. “This is more of a recalibration,” Sponse said, describing language that would continue the pause for projects in which a data center is the property’s primary use while allowing smaller, secondary server facilities to proceed. He said the extension “keeps the topic at a central focus for the County” and gives staff time to coordinate MAPC and other reviews.

Public commenters urged more time and stronger safeguards. Caitlin Grumbacher of West Sedgwick County said residents need more time to digest proposed protections and urged postponing final action beyond December: “The community wants to be engaged… the more time we can have to engage those people, I think the better off we’re going to be.”

Commissioners discussed schedule options. Planning staff committed to posting a draft by Sept. 24, described as a working document that may include alternative options for discussion. County Council Chairman Justin Weidner said the board could also schedule a formal check‑in on Dec. 2 to decide whether additional extension is necessary.

The motion to extend, moved by Chair Jeff Blubahl and seconded by Commissioner Wise, passed on a roll call vote, 5–0. The board directed staff to continue public engagement and provide a visible draft for review before the MAPC advanced plans meeting.