Gov. Kotek halts Salem data center land sale
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has directed state officials to terminate a land sale in southeast Salem intended for a proposed data center. The decision emphasizes alignment with public interest, stewardship of natural resources, and concerns over utility costs and environmental impacts.
Governor Tina Kotek of Oregon has instructed state officials to withdraw from a contract to sell 32 acres of state-owned land in southeast Salem. The land at the Mill Creek Corporate Center was designated for a proposed data center development.
The Governor's decision, issued Thursday, directs the Department of Administrative Services to terminate the agreement, citing her responsibility to ensure state actions reflect Oregon's values, serve the public interest, and consider impacts on infrastructure and natural resources.
This action follows the establishment of the Statewide Data Center Advisory Committee in January, which was convened by Governor Kotek to assess the utility costs and environmental effects of large-scale technology developments on local ratepayers.