A recent government meeting highlighted the contentious debate surrounding the proposed development of a $1 billion data center, with significant implications for local communities. According to a study by CBRE Data Center Solutions Group, the project could generate approximately $200 million in tax revenue over ten years, equating to the economic impact of a corporate headquarters that creates 1,700 jobs with an average salary of $130,000.

However, community members expressed strong concerns regarding the environmental and social costs associated with the data center. Critics pointed out that data centers are among the most energy-intensive building types, consuming 10 to 50 times more energy per square foot than typical commercial offices. They account for about 2% of total U.S. electricity use and contribute to 2% of global CO2 emissions. This raised alarms about the sustainability of such a facility, especially given the projected high energy and water consumption required for operations and cooling.

Local IT professionals voiced their disapproval, citing personal experiences with noise levels and energy demands in data centers. One speaker, Leroy McKelvey, emphasized the potential for deafness among workers due to excessive noise, while another, Anne Fields, questioned the availability of necessary fiber optic infrastructure to support the data center's operations. Fields highlighted the high costs associated with installing fiber connections, raising concerns about who would provide this essential service.

Despite the opposition, the applicant defended the project, stating that they would implement innovative technologies to mitigate noise and improve energy efficiency. They acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in their ability to meet community standards.

As the discussion concluded, the board was left to weigh the potential economic benefits against the environmental and social concerns raised by residents, marking a pivotal moment in the decision-making process for the proposed data center.