MidAmerican Energy letter: “Possible development as a data center site” in Salix, IA
MidAmerican Energy confirmed it is evaluating 900 acres of recently annexed land in Salix, Iowa, for potential data center development. Residents expressed significant concerns about potential noise, water usage, and utility price impacts, while some favored exploring the economic opportunity. The Salix City Council stated that any development would require a zoning change, a process expected to take months.
MidAmerican Energy has confirmed it is evaluating approximately 900 acres of recently annexed agricultural land in Salix, Iowa, as a potential site for data center development. During a packed city council meeting, a letter from MidAmerican Energy was presented, stating the utility has acquired options on the land due to its proximity to existing power lines and is in discussions with potential customers.
Adam Jablonski, MidAmerican's Vice President of Project Development, indicated the project is in early stages, with certainty pending signed agreements from data center operators. However, he noted the location's strong potential.
Residents attending the city council meeting voiced strong opposition and concerns about the potential development. Key issues raised included fears of round-the-clock noise from a large facility, significant water usage (up to five million gallons per day), and possible impacts on local utility prices. Some residents urged a fight against the development to protect their community.
Conversely, some community members spoke in favor of exploring the proposal, emphasizing the potential economic opportunities it could bring to Salix. Salix Mayor Kevin Nelson addressed the council, explaining that if a developer moves forward, the land's current zoning would need to be changed through a process expected to take several months, with no immediate vote anticipated from the city council.