Missoula County Passes Moratorium on New AI Data Centers After Community Pushback
Key Questions
What action did Missoula County take on new AI data centers?
Missoula County commissioners unanimously passed a temporary moratorium on new and expanded data centers, which is now law after strong community opposition to the proposed Bonner mill site.
Why was the moratorium implemented?
The measure addresses potential impacts on the community and follows existing city zoning restrictions on data centers, representing a policy win for residents.
Are similar issues occurring in other Montana locations?
Yes, comparable community opposition to data centers is emerging in Butte and Billings, though Commissioner Slotnick warned the overall fight is not over.
Missoula County commissioners have officially passed a moratorium on new AI data centers, now law, following strong community opposition to the proposed Bonner mill site. City zoning already restricts data centers, and similar fights are emerging in Butte and Billings. Commissioner Slotnick warned the fight isn't over. This is a significant local government and development policy win for residents.