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Residents pack joint session to urge pause on data centers over noise, water and transparency concerns
Summary
Dozens of speakers told commissioners they oppose data centers near homes and schools because of noise, well‑water and ecosystem impacts; multiple speakers asked the county to pause permits, require independent studies paid by applicants and increase setbacks.
More than two dozen residents filled the public‑comment period and nearly all urged more caution or a pause. Carl Ellwine, representing neighbors on Camp Cannoy Road, described taking ambient sound measurements and said a 55 dB boundary standard ‘‘is not gonna work’’ for the quiet rural area; he asked for ambient measurements at residents’ properties and stronger setbacks.
Several speakers, including Camille Finch and Jeff Dixon, described dependence on well water, concerns about closed‑loop cooling and possible long‑term strain on water resources. Patrick Flaherty and others asked for a straight reset — removing data‑center language from the 2025 zoning ordinance so the county can start with full public hearings and independent studies paid for by applicants. Others asked for a ballot referendum to let voters decide.
Not all comments opposed the projects entirely: Tom Clark of IBEW Local 26 said data centers can bring high‑paying jobs and urged the county not to impose a moratorium. Many speakers, however, asked for clearer information from applicants and stronger requirements in ordinance language before any county approvals proceed.
Why it matters: The volume and specificity of public comments — including requests for independent studies, wider setbacks, decommissioning guarantees and enforceable noise rules — demonstrates sustained community concern that will inform planning and BOCC decisions.
