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Residents cite noise, water use and PFAS risks from data centers
Summary
Commenters, citing external reports, warned of low-frequency noise, heavy water consumption and chemical contaminants (PFAS) associated with large data facilities and asked the county to weigh those risks in any approval process.
Several written commenters and in-person speakers raised environmental and health concerns tied to large data centers.
Andrew Cassell's submitted questions asked why the draft would accept a 55-decibel standard, saying "You proposed 55 decibels, which is considered moderate noise that will impact sleep." Fairfax Arnold submitted a longer briefing on acoustic risks that highlighted low-frequency hums, broadband noise, tonal noise and intermittent generator noise as potentially disruptive features of large hyperscale facilities. Roberta Arnold cited articles and asked the county to study PFAS contamination and water consumption thoroughly before permitting any project.
Speakers asked for analysis of local groundwater and wastewater impacts, clearer thresholds for acceptable noise, and stronger plan requirements for waste disposal and decommissioning. County staff did not provide technical measurements at the hearing; they noted the draft is intended to create a review pathway for any future application so these subjects could be addressed in a permit review.
