Farmington Council addresses community concerns on data center project transparency

The Farmington City Council convened on July 7, 2025, to address ongoing community concerns regarding the contentious Farmington Technology Park project, commonly referred to as the data center. The meeting featured a significant address from a council member who sought to clarify misconceptions surrounding the project and the council's decision-making process.

The council member began by emphasizing the importance of transparency, urging residents to utilize the city’s website for accessing meeting agendas, recordings, and supporting materials related to the data center. This initiative aims to ensure that all community members have access to the same information, fostering a more informed public dialogue.

Addressing allegations of secrecy, the council member firmly stated that no nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) had been signed by council members regarding the project. They clarified that while NDAs may be used by city staff in preliminary discussions with developers, council members are not bound by such agreements and have always communicated openly about the project within legal and ethical boundaries.

The council member also refuted claims of collusion among council members, asserting that decisions are made in public forums and that discussions about projects occur during open work sessions. They highlighted that many residents may not engage with the council's activities due to their busy lives, which can lead to misunderstandings about the council's operations.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council to continue addressing community concerns in real-time, ensuring that residents feel heard and informed. The council member expressed gratitude for the opportunity to clarify these issues and reaffirmed the council's dedication to transparency and public engagement.

As the council moves forward, it remains focused on fostering a constructive dialogue with residents regarding the Farmington Technology Park project and other community initiatives.