Show Notes
When an AI data center proposal at the old Bonner Mill site sparked intense public pushback this past summer, Missoula County took action passing an emergency moratorium on new industrial computing facilities. But under state law, a pause comes with a mandate: study the problem, assess the risks, and figure out what local regulations can actually do. Now, Missoula County’s long awaited Data Center Draft Study is officially out. In this follow up episode of "What the Helena?", host Caleb Klaus breaks down the technical and legal reality of bringing hyperscale computing into Western Montana. We dive into the study's key findings, from single facilities requiring energy loads ten times larger than all of NorthWestern Energy’s Montana customers combined, to the hidden paradox of water vs. energy cooling systems, 24/7 low frequency noise, and potential rate hikes on residential power bills.
Plus, we examine how the Montana Legislature’s "Right to Compute Act" limits local government bans, what zoning tools Missoula County can use to protect residents and wildlife, and how you can participate in the upcoming public hearings at the Missoula County Fairgrounds and Courthouse.
🔗 Important Links and Public Engagement Resources:
Read the Study and Submit Public Comments: missoulacountyvoice.com/data-center-interim-zoning
Watch/Listen to the Agenda Podcast: youtube.com/watch?v=Tdl-XgFNvNI
Check Out Our Voter Guide: forwardmontana.org/2026-midterm-election-voter-guide
Learn More About Our Work: forwardmontana.org
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