Okmulgee residents raise concerns during Fluidstack data center open house
Fluidstack held an open house in Okmulgee County, Oklahoma, to discuss its proposed data center. Residents voiced concerns about property values, water usage, health impacts, and electricity rates. They also highlighted the lack of adequate zoning laws to protect the community.
Fluidstack, a data center developer, held an open house at the OSU Institute of Technology in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, to address community concerns regarding its proposed data center in Okmulgee County. This marks the first time the company has directly engaged with the public amidst growing pushback from local residents. Kate Franco with Fluidstack noted the rapid growth of the data center industry in Oklahoma and the public's desire to understand its implications for their community.
The developer's website emphasizes commitments to transparency, local partnership, and environmental accountability. Fluidstack stated it is not seeking local property tax incentives, meaning it will pay its full tax bill. The generated tax revenue is slated to benefit Okmulgee County, Okmulgee Public Schools, and the Green Country Technology Center, distinguishing Fluidstack from other developers who often seek significant tax abatements.
Despite these assurances, residents expressed significant apprehension. Concerns raised included potential drops in property values, unknown health impacts, and water usage. While some residents spoke with representatives from PSO (Public Service Company of Oklahoma) who indicated no impact on electricity rates, the overall sentiment was one of "fear of the unknown."
One resident underscored the community's vulnerability, stating, "There are no zoning laws to protect us." She urged other communities facing similar situations to proactively establish guidelines and boundaries with their county commissioners and city officials. Fluidstack plans to commence building phase one of the two-phase project in September of next year.