Data center concerns in Webster County

Hundreds of concerned citizens filled Marshfield High School's auditorium to address Webster County Commissioners regarding a proposed data center just outside Marshfield city limits. Residents expressed strong concerns and called for a moratorium on data center construction, similar to one recently passed in Camden County. This would allow the commission to research potential regulations for future projects and better understand the pros and cons. Commissioner Dale Fraker stated that the county was surprised by the plan partly because it lacks a planning and zoning commission. Commissioners have since hired legal counsel to explore their options, especially given that the project is already under construction. Developer Trent Over Hughes spoke to the crowd, reassuring them that the project is not as massive as some other data centers and will use very little water. Despite the residents' pleas and the commissioners' ongoing legal review, the developer indicated that the project is moving forward, with work expected to ramp up. The community remains engaged, with further discussions anticipated.