Okeechobee residents raise concerns over proposed 'Okee-One' data center

Okeechobee residents voiced strong opposition to the proposed "Okee-One" data center during a recent Commissioner Meeting, despite the item not being on the official agenda for discussion. The proposed data campus, led by Indian River State College (ISC), is planned for over 200 acres of state-owned land at the former Okeechobee School for Boys. It is intended to function as both an operational data center and a specialized learning environment for ISC students. Residents, approximately seven of whom spoke against the project, expressed concerns about feeling "overlooked, overrun and undervalued," emphasizing that Okeechobee is their home, not just open land. They highlighted a lack of transparency, calling for more committees or open forums to address their numerous unanswered questions. Key concerns articulated by the community include the potential environmental impacts on their agriculture-heavy area and the broader implications for everyday life in Okeechobee. In response, Okeechobee County issued a statement thanking residents for their input and reiterating its commitment to a transparent process, assuring the community that all information would be carefully evaluated and public input would remain vital as discussions continue. Those who spoke at the meeting indicated their intent to attend future Commissioner Meetings to ensure their voices continue to be heard.