What does Merced need most? City council candidates make their case
Candidates for Merced City Council Districts 2 and 6 debated the potential for a large data center in the city during a recent forum. Most candidates expressed opposition, citing concerns over water and electricity consumption and increased utility costs for residents. One candidate was open to evaluating a proposal, suggesting the city should not dismiss opportunities without review.
Candidates for Merced City Council Districts 2 and 6, including incumbents Yang Pao Thao and Fue Xiong, and challengers Felipe Rojas-Flores and Yader Zeledon, debated various city issues during a forum on Thursday night at the Merced Multicultural Arts Center. A central point of contention was the potential development of a 'massive data center' within the city.
Councilmember Fue Xiong immediately opposed the idea, citing significant water and electricity consumption by data centers. Yader Zeledon also expressed opposition, stating he would need assurances that Merced's water supply would be protected, companies would fund necessary infrastructure, and residents wouldn't face additional costs. Felipe Rojas-Flores echoed these concerns, referencing a data center project in Louisiana that led to water problems and rising utility costs for nearby communities, and stating 'For the time being, no data centers.'
In contrast, incumbent Yang Pao Thao was more open to the proposal, advocating for an evaluation of any actual data center project before a decision is made, to consider long-term benefits to Merced's technology and infrastructure. The debate highlighted differing visions for Merced's economic development and resource management among the candidates.