Pikeville mayoral candidates address proposed data center project

The City of Pikeville, Kentucky, is in negotiations with MD Squared Energy for a proposed $250 million data center to be built in the Kentucky Enterprise Industrial Park. Following the announcement, the two mayoral candidates, Bob Shurtleff and the incumbent, issued statements detailing their positions and concerns.

Bob Shurtleff, a City Commissioner and mayoral candidate, emphasized that the agreement is only to explore the possibility, not to approve the project. He stated two non-negotiable conditions: no increase in electric rates for residents and no burden on the city's water infrastructure from a water-cooling system, advocating for a closed-loop system. Shurtleff also called for accountability regarding promised jobs, proposing that the value of unfilled positions be reinvested into the community, and stressed the need for transparency and public involvement.

The other mayoral candidate, also a City Commissioner, acknowledged the 120-day negotiation period with MD Squared LLC, the developer. He shared concerns raised by citizens and outlined key questions he requires answered before supporting any proposal. These include ensuring the data center covers its own electricity costs without impacting residents' utility rates, understanding the cooling systems' water usage and whether the city's resources can support it, and gaining detailed information on wastewater management and potential environmental impacts. He also highlighted the importance of accountability for the promised 190 construction jobs and 40 full-time positions, reiterating that financial gain would not be prioritized over the safety, health, and well-being of Pikeville's citizens.