Billings Daily Digest Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Ty's Take
The push for a two-year moratorium on large data centers tells you something about where Yellowstone County sits right now—caught between the promise of new industry and the hard-won skepticism that comes from watching energy booms come and go. Data centers sound clean on paper, but they need power, water, and land, and in a region that's learned to count on those resources pretty carefully, it's worth asking hard questions before we hand over the keys. The Democrats are right to pump the brakes and take a breath. This isn't about being anti-business; it's about making sure the next big thing actually works for the people who live here, not just the people who own it.
Sponsor Slot AvailableReach Billings Locals Every MorningGet your business in front of engaged local readers. Boat dealers, realtors, restaurants, contractors, home services your audience is reading this right now.Become a Sponsor
Billings Gazette
Yellowstone County Dems are seeking two-year moratorium on large data centers in Montana
Yellowstone County Democratic leaders are pushing for a temporary two-year freeze on new large data center construction in Montana. The proposed moratorium aims to give the state time to study the environmental and economic impacts of such facilities before allowing further expansion.
Billings neighbors: Obituaries for May 27
The Billings Gazette published obituaries for community members who passed away on May 27. Readers can find tributes and remembrances for local residents in today's edition.
May 26 recap: Billings news you may have missed today
Billings residents can catch up on local news stories from May 26 that may have slipped past them in this daily roundup. The recap highlights key events and announcements from across the community.
Ballantine man with history of strangulation, murder convicted of raping teen
A Ballantine man with previous convictions for strangulation and murder has been found guilty of raping a teenager. The conviction adds to his lengthy criminal history of violent offenses.
'Backrooms' opens at the Roxy Theater this week
The suspenseful horror film 'Backrooms' is coming to the Roxy Theater this week. Moviegoers interested in the latest thriller release can catch screenings at the downtown venue.
Weekend review: Top news you may have missed from the Billings Gazette
The Billings Gazette's weekend news recap covers the top stories locals may have missed over the past few days. The video review offers a quick overview of major happenings in and around Billings.
MSUB women’s basketball signs transfer guard Molly Hays
Montana State University Billings women's basketball team has added transfer guard Molly Hays to its roster for the upcoming season. The signing strengthens the team's backcourt depth as it prepares for competition.
NorthWestern Energy shares Oliver the osprey with students
NorthWestern Energy is bringing Oliver the osprey to local schools to educate students about wildlife and energy conservation. The educational outreach introduces young people to Montana's native raptors and their habitat.
Smart earns all-American second team honors in javelin
A local athlete has earned All-American second team honors in the javelin throw at the collegiate level. The achievement recognizes Smart's standout performance in track and field competition.
Rural News Wire is a daily local news digest for Billings and rural America. We aggregate and curate, original reporting belongs to the sources linked above. Support local journalism by visiting their sites.
Subscribe free to get this digest in your inbox every morning.