Work Session - Cox Ranch Annexation Updates - 08-28-26

The City of Cheyenne held a work session on August 28, 2026, to discuss updates on the Cox Ranch annexation and the proposed development of data center facilities by Skybox and West Properties. The developers provided detailed information on the project scope, including plans for two to three data center buildings on over 1,100 acres near Happy Jack, infrastructure coordination with Black Hills and the Board of Public Utilities (BOPU), and environmental considerations such as water usage, sewer, and drainage. They emphasized that no costs for new utility infrastructure would be passed on to existing ratepayers and highlighted community engagement efforts, including agreements with neighboring landowners and commitments to maintain agricultural customs and environmental protections. The developers also discussed workforce plans, including hiring veterans and partnering with the local Air Force base. The council discussed critical annexation issues such as binding agreements that run with the land, community benefits, lighting, sound, and long-term operational commitments. While no formal votes were taken, the session focused on advancing negotiations for annexation and community benefits agreements, with an emphasis on ensuring the project aligns with community and environmental standards before final approval expected by the end of September.