One big thing:

 Millard County is embracing economic development through data centers while working to preserve its rural character and ensure benefits flow to local residents.

Millard County commissioners have approved rezoning 1,100 acres near Delta for a major data center project that could eventually host 30-50 facilities.

While the full build-out will take years, the initial phase includes 5-6 data centers with permits already in place.

Why it matters:

 The project aims to create local jobs and expand the tax base in ways that benefit current residents.

“Of course, people that have families here, one of the complaints is everybody has to leave. They would like their families there. We would like enough growth that we can provide jobs,” says Commissioner Bill Wright.

Between the lines:

 County leaders are planning strategically to ensure the development benefits locals.

“My goal is that all the new growth comes, that we have at least 80% of new people employed will be from that county,” Wright explained.

The commission is establishing workforce development programs with colleges and universities to prepare residents for these jobs.

Yes, but:

 Not everyone supports the changes.

“There’s citizens that like that project and their citizens that don’t,” Wright acknowledged. “Most of the reason why not, it is, if you look forward, it’s a big change in our rural environment. That rural environment is precious and it’s very difficult to want to give up.”

The bottom line: 

Millard County is balancing economic growth with rural preservation while working to ensure new tax revenue benefits residents through lower property taxes.

“If we don’t reduce property taxes, if we don’t give some of that back to taxpayers, governments tend to use all the new money and actually spend and build a house that they can’t keep the lights on,” Wright noted.