Nothing reported in Unincorporated Lincoln County yet
Who decides here: the Lincoln County Commissioners decides on zoning for land outside city and town limits.
Local votes and rules
🗺️ Zoning change
Commissioners changed the zoning rules so data centers in light industrial (I-1) zones need a conditional use permit instead of being allowed outright. That means a public hearing for every new data center. Fuller data center rules were being drafted.
✋ Turned down
Commissioners voted 3-2 against a pause on new data centers twice: in June and again on July 14, 2026 (a 6-month pause). The majority said current zoning rules give enough control, so applications are still reviewed one by one.
🗳️ Election
Residents started a recall petition against the three county commissioners who voted against a data center pause. Signatures were still being gathered in late August 2026.
What you can do
- Get told first.
We'll email you if anything changes in Unincorporated Lincoln County. - Go to county meetings.
Anyone can speak. Big projects usually need a public hearing. - Ask questions in writing.
Use our checklist.
🔔 Get told first
⚡ Your electric company
Depending on where you live in Unincorporated Lincoln County: Dawson Power District (public) or Midwest Electric Member Corp. (co-op (owned by its members)) or Mccook Public Power District (not available) or Custer Public Power District (not available).
Big data centers need a lot of power. Who pays for new power lines depends on state rules. See the rules in Nebraska.