Immigration, data centers factor in Marana council race
Data centers have become a central issue in the Marana Town Council race, with candidates debating the approval of a large data center project by Beale Infrastructure. Opposition candidates are calling for a moratorium on development and greater transparency, citing concerns over power and water usage. A legal challenge is currently underway to force a public referendum on the rezoning decision.
The upcoming Marana Town Council election in Southern Arizona is heavily influenced by the debate over data center development, alongside immigration policies. Five candidates are vying for four open seats, with a coalition named “Marana for the People” challenging incumbent council members.
The core of the data center controversy stems from the council's unanimous January vote to rezone 600 acres of farmland for a hyperscale data center campus by Beale Infrastructure. Candidates like Sue Ritz and Julie Prince of “Marana for the People” express significant concerns about the project's substantial power demands, estimated between 1,100 to 1,500 megawatts, and advocate for a moratorium until a detailed study of long-term impacts can be conducted. They also call for increased transparency and citizen input in development decisions.
While the town passed an ordinance in 2024 restricting potable water use, requiring water and energy estimates, and setting noise limits for data centers, opposition candidates like Jackie McGuire argue it is insufficient for hyperscale facilities. Incumbent Councilmember Murphy defended the ordinance but acknowledged critics' concerns, balancing them with potential community benefits from tax revenue. Other candidates, like Jackie Craig, believe the ordinance adequately addresses environmental issues, while Councilmember John Officer supports the data center project for its economic benefits to the community and schools.
Opposition efforts extend to a legal battle, as a judge previously upheld the town's rejection of a referendum petition aiming to put the rezoning to a public vote. However, candidates McGuire and Ritz have appealed this decision to the Arizona Court of Appeals, with oral arguments scheduled for August 19, hoping to allow voters a say on the data center's future.