Siskiyou supervisors seek to reduce community fears about rumored data center
An unnamed company inquired about developing a data center near Mount Shasta, California, sparking strong community opposition due to environmental concerns, particularly regarding water usage. Siskiyou County supervisors, while having no formal inquiries, acknowledged the fears and encouraged a town hall meeting. The property seller has reportedly removed explicit mentions of data centers from the listing, implying the project is unlikely to proceed.
An unnamed company's inquiry into developing a data center near Mount Shasta, California, has ignited significant community opposition. The initial contact was made last month to the city's planning department regarding an industrial site formerly owned by Crystal Geyser Water Company.
Mount Shasta City Manager Todd Juhasz disclosed the inquiry during a council meeting, noting the property's real estate listing initially highlighted its suitability for data centers due to water access. This information quickly led to community backlash, fueled by fears about potential environmental impacts, particularly on the region's water resources. The intensity of the opposition escalated to threats against city staff, prompting discussions for increased security at city meetings.
Siskiyou County supervisors, including the board in Yreka, addressed the community's concerns, confirming they have not received any official inquiries or permit applications for a data center. Despite the county's lack of direct involvement thus far, supervisors acknowledged the widespread opposition and are considering holding a town hall in Mount Shasta to facilitate public discussion. Mount Shasta Mayor Casey Glaubman supports the idea.
The property's real estate listing has since been altered, removing specific references to data centers, and City Manager Juhasz stated that the seller seems to have understood that a data center project would likely not be approved due to community sentiment and the required environmental impact review process.