Yuma data centers spark opposition, discussion set for council retreat

The prospect of data centers in Yuma, Arizona, has sparked considerable community opposition and is a key topic for discussion at the Yuma City Council's annual retreat. Mayor Douglas Nicholls clarified in a social media post that no data center applications or permit requests have been submitted, despite interest in bringing such facilities to the city. This clarification followed a City Council meeting where residents and local activists voiced their concerns about data center development, particularly regarding water scarcity in a drought-prone region. During the meeting, the Greater Yuma Economic Development Corp. (GYEDC), represented by President and CEO Greg LaVann, presented initiatives including the potential for data centers, citing Yuma's strong electrical infrastructure and proposed natural gas pipeline projects. LaVann addressed common concerns, stating that new projects use less water and that electrical grid investments would not burden ratepayers. However, Councilmember Art Morales and other council members requested a more balanced report outlining both benefits and potential community impacts. Residents, including Katie LaForce, Priscilla Ruedas, and Cocopah tribal member Roxanne Barley, spoke against data centers, citing sustainability issues, drought concerns, and potential impacts on tribal land. Mayor Nicholls also addressed questions about his engineering firm, Core Engineering Group, confirming a past contract for data center permit investigation but denying any current projects. The Yuma City Council is engaging GYEDC to provide more answers during their retreat this week.