La Pine shuts down proposed data center after public backlash
The La Pine City Council unanimously voted against a proposed 20-megawatt data center following strong public opposition and concerns. Residents raised issues about water, energy use, noise, and the project's economic benefits. The decision effectively blocks the project from moving forward.
The La Pine City Council in Oregon has unanimously voted to halt the progression of a proposed 20-megawatt data center on Reed Road, bringing relief to a large crowd of passionate community members. The decision followed hours of public comment expressing strong opposition to the project.
Residents voiced significant concerns regarding the data center's potential impact on energy consumption, water resources, noise levels, and the overall long-term economic benefits to the community. City leaders also raised questions about discrepancies in projected revenue, energy costs, and the number of permanent jobs the facility would create.
Mayor Jeannine Earl stated that the council heard the community's voice, affirming that their decision aligned with what they felt was the right choice for La Pine. The project, first presented in March, involved a possible land sale to developer BoxMiner, but community rallying against the plan ultimately led to its rejection. Deschutes County would also have needed to approve any final land sale, as the land is county-owned.