City manager says Springfield is not in data-center talks, does not use NDAs
Springfield City Manager Nancy Newton told the City Council that the city is not in discussions with data center companies or developers and does not sign nondisclosure agreements for economic development. Residents raised concerns about tax incentives and infrastructure, while officials noted that a large facility would require additional electricity and major infrastructure investment.
Springfield City Manager Nancy Newton told the City Council that no discussions are underway with data center companies or developers and said the city does not participate in nondisclosure agreements. Mayor Sean VanGordon said Springfield lacks sufficiently large undeveloped parcels for a hyperscale facility, while Newton noted that a data center would likely require Springfield Utility Board to purchase more electricity and build significant supporting infrastructure.
Residents Marissa Chizum and Miguel Rivas urged greater transparency and cautioned against tax breaks or fee waivers for facilities that create few jobs. The discussion followed similar data center debates in Eugene and Lane County, where officials have taken steps to restrict employee confidentiality agreements and consider related policies.