Pima County Considers Zoning Changes for Data Centers

The Future of Data Centers in Pima County

The future of data centers in Pima County may involve public hearings and increased oversight by planning and zoning authorities. This comes as the Pima County Board of Supervisors has approved exploring conditional use permits for land already zoned for industrial use. This decision is part of a broader effort to ensure that future developments, such as large-scale data centers, are reviewed thoroughly before approval.

Project Blue, which aimed to use reclaimed water and cover its own infrastructure costs, was halted by the Tucson City Council due to public concerns over its water and energy usage. Additionally, a non-disclosure agreement kept key details about the project from public view. The county supervisors recognized that the public wants more transparency and input in these decisions, and they are now looking into how to achieve this.

During a recent meeting, District 3 Pima County Supervisor Jen Allen mentioned that other local bodies have previously approved similar projects without significant issues. She was referring to a potential text amendment for industrial-zoned land in Pima County, which would prepare the area for future data centers or other large-scale users of water and power. However, not all supervisors were in favor of the move.

District 4 Supervisor Steve Christy expressed concerns about the lack of economic development wins in the county. He pointed to the outcome of Project Blue as evidence that Pima County needs a successful development to attract future investments. Christy emphasized that the community values its natural resources, including the Sonoran Desert, and that policies should reflect this commitment while still supporting economic growth.

Allen clarified that the proposal is not a zoning change but a conditional use permit that would require review by planning and zoning authorities and the board of supervisors, with public hearings at both levels. She noted that other Arizona cities have implemented similar measures, and that the Tucson City Council is currently considering a large water user ordinance.

The impact of this proposal would be most significant in unincorporated areas of Pima County, some of which fall within the Tucson Water service area and others that do not. The goal is to ensure alignment between the county and the city in managing these developments.

Christy raised concerns about the amount of land zoned for such uses and the potential liabilities the county could face if changes are made. Several supervisors indicated that their vote was aimed at gathering more information before finalizing any new projects.

Christy argued that the county has been closed to business, but Allen countered that other communities have implemented similar measures without signaling an end to economic opportunities.

Key Developments on the Horizon

The Tucson City Council is expected to vote on a large water user ordinance soon. Next month, the supervisors will consider two proposed changes: one requiring large development projects to conduct environmental impact reviews and another reforming the use of non-disclosure agreements, which were used to keep details about Project Blue confidential.

These developments highlight the ongoing dialogue between community interests, economic growth, and environmental sustainability in Pima County. As the county moves forward, it remains crucial to balance the needs of residents, businesses, and the environment.