Data center conversation looms over Essex Village Board meeting
Residents in the Village of Essex expressed significant opposition to a potential data center project at a recent board meeting, raising concerns about transparency, potential conflicts of interest in land deals involving former board members, and environmental impacts like water usage and pollution. While plans for the data center and an annexation agreement are pending, public distrust is high.
The Village of Essex Board meeting on Thursday saw intense public commentary regarding a potential data center development. Mayor Pete Dvorak addressed frustrated residents ahead of the public comments, acknowledging numerous Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.
Nicole Shores, a resident leading an investigation, presented documents referring to a "Proposed Data Center" and voiced concerns about transparency and alleged conflicts of interest. She highlighted land sales to Constellation Energy, the developer behind the potential data center, by former Village Board members Ward "Ed" Foley and John Bohac while they still held their seats. Foley's father, Pat, reportedly sold the former High Point Golf Course to Constellation for over $22 million, and Bohac sold a plot for $1.5 million. Shores also pointed out that former Essex mayor David Dvorak, the current mayor's father, signed off on the sale of the South Wilmington Sportsman's Club to Constellation.
Residents like Lorri Caise voiced environmental fears, citing potential noise, water use, contamination, and pollution, arguing that without strong, enforceable standards, the costs to health, environment, and property values could outweigh any benefits like jobs and tax revenue. Bill Erickson called for an independent ethics review. Despite the public debate, the board proceeded with routine village business, approving a bid for road repairs.