Oregon council discusses boat launch, South Shore Park grant, data center, 9/11
The Oregon City Council discussed a proposed charter amendment concerning data centers during its July 20 meeting. Resident Jim Davis of United Neighbors of Oregon challenged the council to place a measure on the November ballot that would limit large-scale data center construction, despite his group's ongoing petition efforts.
The Oregon City Council held a committee of the whole meeting on July 20, where members discussed a variety of local issues including a proposed public boat launch design, a grant for South Shore Veterans Park, and a ceremony for the 25-year anniversary of 9/11.
A significant point of discussion involved a proposed amendment to the city's charter related to data centers. Resident Jim Davis, representing the group United Neighbors of Oregon, addressed the council. Davis urged the council members to introduce a ballot measure that would restrict the construction of large-scale data center facilities at their proposed location.
Davis's group has been actively trying to collect 1,700 signatures for a petition to place the measure on the ballot themselves. However, he challenged the council to schedule a November vote, noting it would require five council votes to put the amendment on the ballot. While the council itself cannot change the charter directly, they can propose amendments for citizen vote.
Councilmember Beth Ackerman sought clarification on the council's authority regarding this matter, indicating that officials would consult with City Law Director Chynna Fifer to review the legal aspects before the next meeting on July 27.