Washington County Commissioners say public meeting needed to discuss data center

Washington County Commissioners are facing pressure from residents regarding a proposed data center in Waterford, nearly four months after the commission agreed to a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) with the unnamed developer. During a recent meeting, Waterford resident 'Shawna' questioned the commissioners' actions, citing concerns about potential impacts on electricity and water bills and criticizing the perceived lack of transparency.

Commissioners Greg Nohe, Charles Schilling, and Eddie Place defended their positions. Commissioner Nohe stated the commission did not 'procure' the data center, while Commissioner Schilling explained he signed the NDA to allow for negotiations and to bring community concerns to the developer. He stressed that his role is to negotiate the best possible agreements for the county, acknowledging that the developers could proceed with building regardless of the commission's approval, provided they comply with state regulations. Commissioner Place expressed uncertainty about reaching an agreement, noting that the commission has learned much about the project from the community itself.

Residents like Holly Kellums and Dee Arnold pressed for more information and engagement, with Arnold referencing a recent primary election where a candidate, Stephanie Lang, signed a resolution for a moratorium on data centers, contrasting it with Commissioner Place's stance. Commissioner Schilling confirmed recent communication with developers, who are forming a public relations group, and insisted that no development agreement would be signed until a public meeting occurs to address community concerns about the project's impact on water, farmland, and the local economy.