Sept. 9, 2026, Weld County Board of Commissioners Global AI hearing (video 1 of 3)

The Weld County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on September 9, 2026, focusing primarily on a use by special review (USR) application by Global AI to repurpose a former industrial facility into a large-scale data center. The discussion centered on the project's compliance with county land use codes, particularly regarding water and electrical service availability, noise standards, and compatibility with surrounding land uses. Global AI representatives detailed their plans, emphasizing closed-loop cooling systems to minimize water use, commitments to local workforce development, and adherence to noise regulations. However, multiple public commenters and neighboring property representatives raised concerns about the adequacy and legality of the water and power service commitments, potential noise impacts, environmental effects, and the project's compatibility with future residential development. Several speakers urged the board to deny the application due to incomplete or insufficient documentation, ongoing legal disputes over utility service letters, and potential adverse community impacts. The board also discussed the need for clear conditions related to noise compliance and water usage. No final vote was recorded in the transcript, but the hearing included motions to continue other docket items and extensive public comment on the data center proposal.