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Sarpy County commissioners criticize OPPD presentation as PR; request clearer answers on data center power and commitments
Summary
Commissioners said a recent Omaha Public Power District (OPPD) presentation to the board amounted to public relations messaging rather than candid answers about data‑center energy use and service commitments; some commissioners urged direct, on‑the‑record responses and closer engagement with OPPD and MUD.
Commissioners expressed frustration with a recent Omaha Public Power District presentation, saying OPPD provided “crafted” responses instead of direct answers to questions about data center energy consumption, rate parity and guarantees of future supply as Sarpy County grows.
One commissioner described the presentation as “no more than a public relations event” and said OPPD declined to send elected officials to answer questions on the record. That commissioner said constituents frequently ask how much power data centers use and whether those facilities pay the same rates as other customers; he said OPPD directed the board to its annual report rather than answering the questions directly.
Other commissioners disagreed about the value of OPPD attendance. Commissioner Kelly Burmeister and another commissioner said having OPPD present gave the board an opportunity to ask questions on the record, while others said discussions with OPPD historically have been vague and that the county should seek a better working relationship. Several commissioners suggested routine, direct meetings with OPPD staff rather than public presentations.
Commissioners also asked whether Metropolitan Utilities District (MUD), another major regional utility, should be invited to meet with the board. A member of the board suggested the county’s elected delegation could help elevate concerns if OPPD continues to provide incomplete responses.
No formal action was taken; the remarks were made during the commissioners’ comments section and reflect ongoing concern about utility coordination as county growth increases.
