Politics
Boulder City ballot puts data center zoning and infrastructure spending before voters
Two ballot questions ask Boulder City voters to decide whether data centers may be permitted south of town and whether the city can spend more annually from its capital improvement fund. Residents have raised questions about jobs, environmental safeguards, tourism and who benefits from public spending.
Boulder City voters are being asked to make two decisions that could shape development and public works in the community: whether data centers may be allowed in an area south of town and whether the city can draw more each year from its Capital Improvement Fund.
The first question concerns the Eldorado Valley Transfer Area, off U.S. Highway 95 south of the city, and excludes land within the Multi-species Habitat Conservation Easement. A yes vote would make data centers an approved land use there, but would not ensure that a facility is built.
Some residents see the prospect of jobs alongside concerns about the effects of another large development. Tyson Ballard said he supports the proposal if companies meet their commitments to manage projects themselves. He said data centers could bring hundreds of jobs, but added that they should be built safely.
A Boulder City voter who spoke anonymously said the area is already seeing solar and battery-storage development. “It is great to have data centers, but there are consequences,” the voter said.
Michael Green, a UNLV history professor, said additional development could change the qualities that attract people to Boulder City. He argued the city can improve infrastructure while preserving its distinct character and history, including its ties to Hoover Dam and the railroad, its art and its historic downtown.
The second question would replace the current $1 million annual authorization for capital improvements with an amount of up to 50% of the Capital Improvement Fund’s ending cash balance from the most recently audited fiscal year. The money would go toward projects intended to benefit residents and visitors. If voters reject the change, some improvements may have to wait, according to the ballot-question description.
Ballard supports the higher spending limit, saying investment in roads and historic districts could support businesses that depend on visitors. Other residents worry about increased tourism and whether contractors, rather than the broader community, would benefit. A resident identified as Marie said she voted no because she was concerned the city would spend too freely and direct work to favored companies.
Environmental accountability was also a concern across both questions. John “Two Hearts” Madrid said he voted no on both, but would reconsider if the city and companies could be held legally responsible for environmental damage. He called for clear responsibility for impacts on the environment.
The final day to vote is Tuesday, Nov. 3.