Residents press for clearer minutes and NDA policy amid data‑center discussion

Committee members and a resident pressed the board for clearer public records and policy steps as discussion continued around a proposed data center. During approval of prior minutes, committee member Fran asked that minutes reflect whether speakers were 'opposed' or 'in favor' rather than merely noting that they 'spoke about' the data center. Fran said "words count" and urged more precise minutes language.

Resident Prescott Balch, of 7337 Foley Road, addressed the committee during public comment about projected revenue from the proposed data center, saying he had heard annual figures "in the ballpark of $1,700,000 or $1,500,000 per year" and arguing that even if all that revenue were returned to taxpayers it would lower his tax bill by roughly 7 percent. Balch said that modest tax relief did not justify potential long‑term impacts, warning of a "15 year time horizon where you have an albatross on your hands."

Separately, a committee member raised concern about staff signing nondisclosure agreements with developers, saying NDAs could prevent staff from sharing information with elected officials and suggested the board consider a policy limiting such agreements. Staff said the matter could be discussed and that they would consult the chief and consider placing the issue on a future agenda.

Next steps: The committee approved the minutes after discussion; members asked staff to return with any proposed policy language on NDAs and to place a materials/ordinance review (referred to colloquially in the meeting as 'coal tar' restrictions) on a future agenda for consideration.