The St. Croix County Community Development Committee meeting on July 22, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding a proposed joint development agreement (JDA) with Xcel Energy. Community members voiced strong opposition, emphasizing potential negative impacts on local resources and the environment.

Key discussions centered around the implications of expanding data centers in the area, which require substantial water for cooling. Residents expressed fears that such developments could jeopardize water rights and harm local farmland. One speaker, David Meyer, criticized the vague terms of the JDA, questioning the lack of detailed information about the project and its potential hazards. He urged committee members to reconsider their support, citing the need for transparency and community input.

Another speaker, Representative Rob Scribe, echoed these concerns, highlighting a perceived lack of engagement from Xcel Energy in local discussions. He pointed out that the company had not held an in-person meeting in the Town of Erin Prairie, which he deemed disrespectful to the community. Scribe advocated for a focus on nuclear energy as a viable alternative, arguing that solar and wind projects may not meet the energy demands of upcoming data centers.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between community interests and corporate development plans. Residents are calling for more thorough evaluations of the potential impacts of such projects on their land and resources. The committee's next steps remain uncertain as they weigh the community's concerns against the proposed developments.