Marshalltown Should Negotiate Strong Data Center Deal, Says Former Publisher
Mike Schlesinger, a former publisher of the Times-Republican, advocates for Marshalltown, Iowa, to pursue the opportunity of hosting a data center. He urges the city to negotiate a robust deal that secures economic benefits, new jobs, and strong protections for the community, including standards for environmental impact, water, electricity, noise, and traffic.
Mike Schlesinger, the retired publisher of the Times-Republican, has penned an opinion piece advocating for Marshalltown, Iowa, to embrace the opportunity of hosting a data center. Schlesinger argues that while Marshalltown has a strong manufacturing history, it must adapt to the changing global economy, which now includes a massive demand for computing infrastructure driven by artificial intelligence and cloud computing.
He clarifies that supporting a data center does not equate to giving a developer a "blank check," but rather an opportunity to negotiate the best possible deal for the city. Schlesinger highlights potential benefits, including hundreds of construction jobs and millions in economic activity, along with permanent, high-paying jobs that could entice young people to build careers locally. He also stresses the importance of diversifying Marshalltown's economic base.
Schlesinger outlines key demands the city should make during negotiations. These include requiring the developer to contribute to necessary infrastructure, establishing rigorous standards for water, electricity, noise, traffic, and environmental protection, and securing financial guarantees to protect taxpayers. He also suggests pursuing local hiring, apprenticeships, and training opportunities. Schlesinger concludes by urging Marshalltown not to let fear dictate its future, but to actively negotiate a deal that benefits the community while protecting its character.