City debates controversial data center proposal amid community concerns

In a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the establishment of a new data center in the area, highlighting potential implications for local residents and the community's infrastructure. The discussions centered around the nature of the proposed facility, with one speaker suggesting it could be a mobile operation that might leave the city with unpaid utility bills, potentially leading to increased rates for residents.

The White River Electric Cooperative confirmed its capacity to support the project, but questions lingered about the long-term impact on local resources if the data center were to relocate. The speaker emphasized the need for a special use permit that would require multiple levels of review, including public hearings, to ensure community interests are adequately represented.

Bob Huelz, a broker involved in the project, countered claims about the facility's mobility, asserting that it would be a permanent structure designed for industrial use. He argued that the industrial park was specifically developed for such operations, equipped with redundant power and fiber optic services to meet the demands of data centers. Huelz also highlighted the potential for high-paying jobs in the area, suggesting that local training programs could help fill these positions.

However, skepticism remained among community members. Some expressed concerns about the industry's volatility and the historical challenges faced by similar projects in other regions, such as Murphy, North Carolina. They questioned the reliability of promised job creation and the adequacy of the proposed regulations to protect local interests.

As the meeting concluded, the debate underscored the tension between economic development and community protection, with stakeholders on both sides advocating for their perspectives on the future of the data center and its implications for the locality.