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Denver City Council Approves Data Centers, Budget Changes Ahead of November Vote
Recent approvals on data centers, budget changes, water use and homelessness support point to upcoming council actions.
How we reported this
Denver City Council approved a one-year moratorium on new data center applications to assess impacts on energy, water use and the electrical grid. The council is also voting on a charter amendment for the November ballot to change Denver's city budget process. These steps follow separate actions on water restrictions, homelessness funding and land rezoning.
Moratorium on Data Center Applications
The one-year moratorium on new data center applications requires the council to evaluate effects on energy, water use and the electrical grid before considering further proposals. This decision creates a review period during which no new applications will move forward. The pause allows time to gather data on infrastructure demands.
Charter Amendment on November Ballot
The council is voting on a charter amendment for the November ballot to change Denver's city budget process. Voters will decide on the proposed changes later this year. Passage would alter how the city handles its annual budgeting procedures.
Water Restrictions and Homelessness Funding
Denver Water has implemented Stage One water restrictions that require a 20% reduction in water use and limit yard watering to two days per week. In a separate action, the council approved a $6.88 million amendment for motel vouchers to support STAR, DPD and outreach workers addressing homelessness. These measures address immediate resource and service needs.
Land Rezoning Under Council Bill 0476
Council Bill 0476 rezoned three city-owned properties, including an unnamed park at 44th and Pearl and Heron Pond Park, to Open Space-A (OS-A). The rezoning designates the sites for open space use. This action protects specific parcels from other development categories.
Key Decisions Ahead
The November ballot vote on the charter amendment will determine whether Denver's budget process changes. The data center moratorium runs for one year, after which the council will review findings on energy, water and grid impacts. Ongoing implementation of water restrictions and the $6.88 million homelessness amendment will require continued oversight by city agencies.