The Box Elder County Commission voted Wednesday to adopt a temporary 18/0-day land use regulation that suspends the processing of new applications for data centers and associated power plants within unincorporated areas of the county.
Purpose of new ordinance
According to a press release from Box Elder County, Ordinance No. 654 was established to allow county officials and staff time to evaluate potential updates to the Land Use Management & Development Code. The temporary regulation aims to provide a period for research, analysis, and public participation regarding zoning classifications, development standards, and infrastructure considerations specifically related to data center technology projects.
Impact on existing projects
County leaders noted that the ordinance does not permanently prohibit such developments but provides a window to study the significant infrastructure requirements and impacts associated with these facilities. The county confirmed that this regulation does not affect the Stratos Project, as that project is located within an area governed by the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA).
Cedar City budget planning
As Box Elder County implements its temporary pause, other Utah municipalities are moving forward with fiscal year planning. The City of Cedar City announced it will hold a public hearing during its June 10, 2026, City Council meeting to receive comments on the adoption of the 2026-2027 fiscal year budget.
Cedar City hearing details
Cedar City officials stated that the hearing will also include sessions for the Cedar City Redevelopment Agency and the Cedar City Municipal Building Authority to discuss their respective 2026-2027 tentative budgets.
Clinton City budget meeting
In Clinton City, a special meeting is scheduled for June 16, 2026, to hold a public hearing regarding the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 final budget. According to a notice from the Clinton City Recorder, the hearing will also address final budgets for the Clinton City Redevelopment Agency and the Clinton City Sanitary Sewer Special Service District.
