Pima Supes Set to Approve New Data Center as Tucson Reconsiders Camping Ban

Pima County is poised for significant developments as the Board of Supervisors prepares to vote on a new data center project on county-owned land near South Harrison Road. The center, developed by Beale Infrastructure from San Francisco, carries a hefty $1.2 billion price tag and promises to be a major job creator, expected to generate over 5,000 jobs through construction and operation.

To proceed, the board will need to approve the sale of a 290-acre parcel for $20.9 million, plus a rezoning of the land to permit the construction. Tucson City Council may also need to annex the property. The anticipated economic benefits include approximately $250 million in tax revenues over a decade, contingent on successful job creation and operational agreements.

Despite the development’s promise, concerns are emerging regarding data centers’ environmental impact. Critics highlight issues like high energy consumption and urban heating effects, with debates increasing over their role in climate change and noise pollution. Local jurisdictions like Marana are restricting data center development in response to these concerns.

Supervisor Rex Scott remains open-minded about the project but has raised important questions regarding water use. While the developer commits to replenishing all potable water, plans to utilize reclaimed water are also part of the strategy. Construction on the data center is expected to start within 24 months following the property transfer.

In addition to the data center discussions, Pima County’s Board of Supervisors is set to approve a $1.8 billion budget for fiscal year 2025-26, which includes $11 million dedicated to affordable housing and eviction legal services. The county’s surplus is projected to reach $117 million, influenced by a recent 4.9% increase in the assessed value of properties.

Residents should expect some tax increases, with an 8.3% rise in the overall tax levy due to slight adjustments in property taxes to accommodate necessary capital projects. Furthermore, proposals to increase wastewater fees aim to expand financial assistance for low-income ratepayers.

On the legislative front, Tucson City Council will revisit a failed camping ban proposal in light of a controversial new state law regarding homelessness. A study session will address the implications of Proposition 312, aimed at increasing local governments’ responsiveness to homelessness.

Councilmembers will also discuss modifications to housing construction regulations, aiming to streamline the approval process. This includes converting obsolete commercial properties into residential spaces—a move seen as a step towards increasing housing density near urban centers.

Finally, the Marana Town Council will review regulations on inoperable vehicles and could approve its fiscal budget for 2025-26, which includes conditional employee raises. As cities grapple with complex issues of development, funding, and service provision, the outcome of these meetings will shape Tucson’s future significantly.