The boom in data center construction nationwide reminds us of the proper role of  government. Without thoughtful planning and zoning, without regard for resource management, environmental protection, and the health and well-being of residents, data centers are earning a reputation as terrible neighbors.

Data centers must not be built close to homes. The permitting process must be as transparent as possible, allowing time for public notification, impact studies, and public comment. Particularly when living through a drought, people rightly want to know how a large facility will affect the local water supply. Living with inflation, people want to know how adding a large consumer of natural gas or electricity will affect their utility rates. What about pollution? What about noise, particularly low frequency noise, how far does it travel? What carefully written regulations would protect residents, while also helping developers with their planning and design by clearly communicating  non-negotiable limits?

A well planned, properly sited data center can bring economic activity, construction jobs, and long-term maintenance jobs. Developers of large projects  who understand the importance of establishing safe working conditions, fair and consistent wages for well-defined crafts, and procedures for addressing disputes and grievances at the outset are able to minimize disruptions and misunderstandings, keeping the project on schedule and minimizing cost overruns. Building man camps brings many questions and concerns from nearby residents. Hiring qualified local contractors and craftspeople, even if the size of the project requires some travelers to help man the job, goes a long way in maintaining goodwill in the community,  ensuring that local residents share in the economic benefits.

Government must work for the people. If a project is likely to damage the community, a representative government says no. Well written regulations can actually speed up economic development by communicating information about the feasibility of a project before money and time is spent on planning for an unsuitable location.  

Wyoming residents will see a ballot initiative called the People's Initiative to Limit Property Tax in Wyoming in November 2026. The initiative would create a 50% exemption for property used as a primary residence, as long as the claimant has resided there for at least a year, and must live there for at least six months of the tax year. Recently, exemptions for seniors and veterans have already been enacted, as well as a 25% exemption for the first $1 million of home value. 

On the upcoming ballot measure, there is no cap on the value of property to be exempted. Someone who lives in a $15 million mansion would keep money in their pocket that is currently helping to fund education, first responders, and senior services in our communities. Someone who lives in a modest house would save a smaller amount of money, which may be sorely needed, but that person is also more likely to be negatively affected by cuts to basic community services.

Wyoming is known as a low tax state. Wyoming ranks #1 overall on  the Tax Foundation 2026 State Tax Competitiveness Index. We have no state income tax. All homeowners contribute to our communities by paying property tax. Owners of expensive homes paying more than owners of modest homes is a fair system. On the other hand, if lack of revenue causes sales tax to be increased to keep basic services intact, that would disproportionately affect low income people, and that would not be fair.

The idea of reducing property tax when we are facing higher bills is tempting. We are all paying more for everything, but most of our wages are not keeping up.  According to Neilsberg.com, median household income in Wyoming is around $75,000, which actually decreased between 2010 and 2023. In contrast, the top 5% mean household income in Wyoming is over $417,000. What a difference! Many of our neighbors must spend every dime just to meet basic needs, while others have the luxury to save and invest. 

I oppose this ballot initiative. Because there is no cap on the value of property to be exempted, this initiative would cut revenue substantially more than the 25% exemption with a $1 million cap already has. Road maintenance, community health, and raises for city, county, and state employees would be on the chopping block. Wealthy people would significantly reduce their share of contributions to our communities. The (Rich) People’s Initiative is a relic of the recent reign of irresponsibility in Cheyenne, with the same legislators who suggested massive cuts to the University of Wyoming bringing this ballot initiative forth. The (Rich) People’s Initiative was crafted to appeal to people in need, but it rewards wealth paired with greed, at the expense of communities.

Open to growth opportunities while maintaining respect for existing neighbors

Seeks expert advice on long term consequences to water, wildlife, and environment

Is able to provide transparency by speaking about the various interests and factors under scrutiny 

Listens with an open mind

Seeks factual information

Knows the world is not black and white

Thinks for themselves

Chooses problem solving over virtue signaling 

Remembers the people who are too busy working to come to the meeting