Clinton City Council discusses bringing a potential data center to city limits
The Clinton City Council discussed a potential data center project by QTS, drawing dozens of residents concerned about water and energy usage. A council member proposed a moratorium on construction until new ordinances are in place to address these concerns. The council decided to take more time to consider the best path forward for the city.
During a recent Clinton City Council meeting, dozens of residents voiced concerns regarding a proposed data center development within city limits. The organization Grow Clinton, working with Quality Technology Services (QTS), is proposing a multibillion-dollar investment that would create thousands of construction jobs and hundreds of long-term careers in the region. Residents expressed worries about the potential data center's water and energy consumption, with some stating, "I don't think that we should turn our beautiful city over to water thievess."
Council Member Janet Turpen highlighted an incident in Georgia where QTS reportedly did not account for 30 million gallons of water usage. Turpen proposed a moratorium on any new data center construction until the city establishes adequate ordinances to protect against similar issues. Concerns were also raised about the city's current lack of protective ordinances.
However, Council Member Cody Seeley downplayed immediate concerns, stating that nothing can move forward without a development agreement and emphasizing the city's control over the process. Mayor Scott Madaisson read a statement on behalf of Grow Clinton, promoting the economic benefits. The council ultimately decided they needed more time to determine the best course of action for Clinton's future, amidst calls from the public to either "prove it" if a data center is good for the community or "have the guts to say we're not going to have it" if it's not.