Washington couple claims ‘Microsoft data centre conspiracy’ over 44-acre land dispute
A couple in Washington is confronting major obstacles in their attempts to build on family land, having already invested nearly $300,000 on necessary studies and regulatory compliance. The county's demand to set aside over two-thirds of their property for mitigation raises concerns for the couple, especially in light of nearby Microsoft data centre comparisons. They claim this treatment is unjust…
A Washington couple, Tyler and Wendy Chambers, have alleged they have fallen victim to a "Microsoft data centre conspiracy" after investing nearly $300,000 in an attempt to construct a home on their family land in Chelan County. The issue arose when the couple was informed they would need to reserve 44.2 acres for conservation purposes, reducing the land available for their home by two-thirds.
The couple and their real estate broker, Jeff Hallman, questioned why the requirement applied to their property while Microsoft was constructing a nearby data centre. Hallman compared the amount of earthmoving involved in both projects, suggesting that Microsoft was required to move substantially more earth while being allowed to set aside less land.
The dispute started when Tyler Chambers purchased three tax parcels totaling 66 acres in 2021, intending to build a home and pole barn. He completed various assessments, including geological, soil, survey, and engineering studies, and received approval from the Chelan County Community Development Director. However, after a county investigation determined the initial complaint about earthmoving was unfounded, a stop-work order was issued in 2022.
Additional studies were required, covering topics such as stormwater, spotted owls, golden eagles, deer, shrubsteppe, geotechnical conditions, and mitigation. The Chambers faced numerous demands, investing approximately $300,000 in regulatory requirements and professional reports.
The couple claims that the requirement to reserve 44.2 acres was inconsistent with the treatment of a nearby Microsoft data centre project. They argue that Microsoft moved about 500,000 cubic yards of dirt for their data centre project but was required to set aside far less land. Chambers also pointed out that neighboring properties did not face the same requirement.
The Chambers describe the situation as "extortion" and allege that the extensive regulatory demands have caused significant financial and personal stress. They maintain that they still pay about $3,000 a month on their construction loan despite being unable to proceed with the project. The Chambers hope to continue challenging the restrictions and ultimately build a home on their property.
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