Local Governments Clash With Data Center Developers in Nevada and Indiana

The Bureau of Land Management approved a data center on public land in Boulder City, Nevada, by amending a previous solar farm permit. The agency determined the original environmental review was sufficient, effectively bypassing new public comment periods and local consultation. In response, the Boulder City Council voted unanimously on July 15, 2026, to appeal the decision, citing concerns over noise, air pollution, and a potential loss of $2.3 million in annual city revenue. Representative Dina Titus has since demanded explanations from the agency regarding the lack of public engagement.

Simultaneously, the Metropolitan Development Commission in Indianapolis granted a use variance for a project proposed by DC BLOX Inc. The commission voted 6-1 to approve the development on the city's east side, despite protests from the Irvington community and Warren Township residents. To mitigate opposition, DC BLOX scaled its $2 billion campus proposal from three buildings to two and reduced the number of diesel generators.

While opponents like City-County Councilor Andy Nielsen cited risks to local schools and trails, supporters including Councilor Michael Paul-Hart argued the industrial project would expand the city's tax base and improve infrastructure. In Nevada, City Attorney Brittany Walker alleged the federal approval process departed from legal precedent, while developer Townsite Solar 2 expressed a desire to work with Boulder City regardless of the land's ownership status.