APC Data Center Plan Subcommission Meeting 8-5-26

The Grant County Government held a subcommittee meeting on August 5, 2026, to review and discuss a draft ordinance regulating data centers within the county. The voluntary subcommittee, including community members and planning commission representatives, focused on provisions related to decommissioning, site restoration, performance guarantees, bonds, and enforcement mechanisms to protect county residents and agricultural land. Key procurement-related discussions included requirements for performance bonds set at 150% of estimated decommissioning costs, engineering studies to determine bond amounts, and the role of the Grant County Area Planning Commission (APC) in enforcement and bond adjustments. The committee also considered public input on environmental impacts, bond sufficiency, and the need for clear legal mechanisms such as liens and rehabilitation plans. Additionally, the meeting touched on potential fees for applications and permits, and the importance of future-proofing the ordinance to address emerging technologies. The subcommittee plans to incorporate revisions and hold at least one more meeting before presenting the ordinance to the full Area Planning Commission and county commissioners for final approval.