Data center debate continues before water infrastructure upgrades start

Piedmont, Oklahoma residents are expressing strong opposition to a proposed data center in their city, primarily citing concerns over water usage and the city's struggling water infrastructure. During a recent city council meeting, residents conveyed their disapproval, highlighting existing issues such as low water pressure and frequent water line breaks. Former interim Mayor Melissa Ashford echoed these sentiments, questioning the feasibility of supporting a data center given the current water challenges. Piedmont's primary water source is Oklahoma City, from which it purchased over 200 million gallons in 2024. The city has received a $2 million grant and a $21 million low-interest loan from the Water Resources Board for comprehensive water infrastructure upgrades to prepare for projected growth of 162% over the next 25 years. However, these upgrades have not yet begun, intensifying residents' worries that a data center would further strain the system. The "battle over the data center continues," with a Zoning and Planning Commission meeting scheduled for May 4th. Residents are urging ward members to consider their concerns as the debate unfolds. The City of Piedmont has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the project.