Pine Island election could determine future of proposed Google data center
Pine Island’s November election could determine whether Google’s proposed Project Skyway data center continues moving forward. Candidates are divided over the project, with supporters citing economic and tax benefits and opponents seeking changes or a slower process.
Pine Island’s mayoral and City Council election has become a referendum of sorts on Project Skyway, a proposed Google data center. The City Council has unanimously supported steps advancing the project since February 2025, but opponents could gain enough seats in November to challenge that direction.
Candidates offered differing views. Mark Lang said he opposes the project as currently structured and would seek a better deal and location, while Donald Mack criticized the council’s handling of development issues. Other candidates, including Dominick Pahl, incumbent Mayor Brandi Veith Staloch and council incumbent Delana Weis, expressed support for economic growth and the project’s potential benefits.
Pine Island Economic Development Authority President Ann Fahy-Gust and former Mayor David Friese said the data center could generate substantial tax revenue, support local businesses and provide $24 million in donations to Pine Island Public Schools. Opponents have raised concerns including water use, light pollution and community change, although Google has announced a closed-loop cooling system intended to reduce water consumption.