Public Services Committee 05-18-26

The City of Cheyenne Public Services Committee convened on May 18, 2026, to discuss multiple agenda items including zoning changes, plat approvals, and a significant proposed 12-month moratorium on new data center developments. The committee reviewed several zoning amendments and plats related to residential and business park developments, with motions to approve these items moving forward to the governing board. The primary focus of the meeting was the extensive public discussion on the proposed moratorium on data centers, driven by community concerns over water usage, electricity demand, environmental impacts, noise pollution, and infrastructure strain. Proponents of the moratorium emphasized the need for comprehensive studies on cumulative impacts and better regulatory oversight, while opponents, including labor union representatives and industry stakeholders, highlighted the economic benefits, job creation, and existing regulatory safeguards. The moratorium would temporarily halt consideration of new data center permits to allow city staff to study impacts and provide recommendations by April 1, 2027. Despite robust public testimony on both sides, the committee did not reach a consensus or forward a recommendation to the governing body at this meeting. The discussion also touched on policy implications related to zoning classifications, industrial siting exemptions, and community engagement in planning processes.