City Council Unanimously Decides to Appeal BLM Data Center Decision

At their regularly scheduled meeting July 14, the City Council unanimously decided to appeal the Bureau of Land Management decision to permit a data center built on BLM land within the City of Boulder City's jurisdiction. This land is subject to utilities and emergency response services from the City and the "City contends that the BLM did not consult with the City or provide adequate opportunity for public input on the approved data center, as required by federal law."

From the City's press release:

During the meeting, in response to questions from City Council, City Attorney Brittany Walker explained that had the BLM engaged in processes required under federal law, the City of Boulder City would have had a more meaningful opportunity for input. Council member Steve Walton expressed shock at the BLM’s conclusion that a data center is similar to a solar power generation and battery energy storage project. Council member Denise Ashurst noted that the BLM’s decision was “out of the norm” and requested that the City Attorney keep the City Council and public updated on the decision. Finally, Council member Sherri Jorgensen stated that she sees this as a bipartisan issue and also expressed disbelief in the decision.

Brittany Walker, City Attorney, will submit the appeal on or before July 27, 2026.

For those interested, a link to the July 14, 2026 City Council meeting is HERE.