10.A.
City Council Meeting - FINAL
- Meeting Date:
- 04/21/2026
- Co-Submitter:
- Joanne Keene
- From:
- Heidi Hansen, Economic Vitality Division Director
TITLE
Introduction to Data Centers
STAFF RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Informational only
Executive Summary:
This discussion item aims to provide an informative overview of data centers, focusing on their relevance to future planning in Flagstaff. The objectives include explaining what a data center is, describing the city's review process for data center proposals, and outlining key considerations such as physical characteristics, water usage, sustainability and economic development impacts.
Information:
A data center is a facility that houses computer systems and related components, such as telecommunications and storage systems. These centers service as the backbone for digital infrastructure, supporting data storage, processing, and connectivity for businesses and organizations.
Staff will go over physical characteristics of a data center, including typical size and appearance, while offering examples. They will also share information on the potential effect on local water resources, environmental considerations and economic development opportunities and challenges.