City Council Regular Session - 05/19/2026

The City Council of Longmont, Colorado, held a regular session on May 19, 2026, where key procurement-related discussions focused on amendments to the municipal code concerning hyperscale data centers and prairie dog management permits. The council considered amendments to limit data center electrical demand to 100 megawatts, with motions passed to verify usage through Longmont Power and Communications and to restrict expansions exceeding this threshold. Additionally, the council reviewed proposed fee increases for prairie dog permits and habitat restoration, with discussions on incentivizing humane relocation over extermination. The council directed staff to engage further with the impact committee on these matters. Budget discussions highlighted challenges in public safety funding, with presentations on staffing needs, increasing call complexity, and potential public safety tax increases. The council expressed interest in exploring various funding options, including bonding and property tax increases, to address staffing gaps and capital needs. No final decisions on tax rates were made, but staff was tasked with returning with options. The meeting also included proclamations, public comments, and council member remarks on community events and initiatives.