Piedmont, Oklahoma, Council Postpones Vote on Cloverleaf Data Center Project
The Piedmont City Council is considering annexation and rezoning requests from Cloverleaf Infrastructure for its proposed 633-acre Project Open Sky data center, with the decision again postponed. Residents have voiced concerns about the project's impact on the community's character and nearby properties. Cloverleaf has revised its proposal to address some concerns, including funding city costs and offering buyout options for homeowners.
The Piedmont City Council has again postponed a decision on annexation and rezoning requests for Cloverleaf Infrastructure's proposed Project Open Sky data center. The 633-acre multi-building campus is planned for an area just north of Piedmont, Oklahoma, and requires both annexation into the city and a change in zoning to proceed.
Residents, including long-time resident Rodney Jones, have expressed significant concerns that the data center development could fundamentally alter the quiet, neighborly character of the community and negatively impact nearby homeowners. Public opposition has been a consistent theme in recent council discussions.
In response to community feedback, Cloverleaf Chief Development Officer Aaron Bilyeu stated the company has modified its proposal. These changes include a commitment to fund costs associated with the development, removing financial burden from the city, and a pledge to comply with Piedmont's noise standards while utilizing a closed-loop cooling system. Additionally, Cloverleaf introduced a provision offering homeowners within the designated project area the option to sell their property at market value or remain in their homes.
Despite these adjustments, some residents, such as Ali Taylor, continue to urge city leaders to prioritize the social health and welfare of the community over the project. Cloverleaf estimates the project could represent over $1 billion in taxable investment, create more than 1,000 construction jobs, and approximately 300 permanent jobs. The council is continuing its review, with no final decision on the annexation or rezoning requests yet made.