Tree commission and data center discussed at meeting
Van Wert City Council discussed local issues, including a failed zoning initiative and continued public opposition to a proposed data center. Residents voiced concerns about the data center's potential impact on health and water resources, though a councilman explained the system's closed-loop water usage. The meeting highlighted ongoing community concerns regarding the development.
The Van Wert City Council held a meeting where several local issues were debated, including the re-establishment of a tree commission and a proposed smoking ban in city parks, both of which saw votes against their initial proposals. City Auditor Erika Blackmore also reported on the failure of a zoning initiative to make the November ballot due to an insufficient number of valid signatures.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comments regarding a proposed data center. City resident Tara Heck expressed strong opposition, citing concerns about potential negative health impacts, the dissolution of public services, and particularly the immense water demands, claiming "farmers will not have water for their crops." She called the decision to allow a data center "unconstitutional."
Third Ward Councilwoman Julie Moore questioned the source of Heck's information. First Ward Councilman Jeff Agler clarified that the data center would initially use 660,000 gallons of water and operate with a closed-loop system, which would significantly reduce ongoing water needs compared to Heck's claims of "millions of gallons." Despite this, other frequent critics, Kelly Ripley of Convoy and David Roehm of Willshire, also voiced continued opposition to the project.