Palm Beach County seeks more options for data center consultant and bringing on resident task force
Palm Beach County commissioners reversed an initial decision to hire VHB for nearly $225,000 to help develop regulations for large data centers. After residents questioned VHB's independence because of its work for data center developers, commissioners directed staff to consider other consultants and revisit creating a resident task force.
The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners initially approved VHB for a nine-month, nearly $225,000 consulting contract to help draft rules for large data centers. The study would examine potential effects involving noise, water and power use, backup generators, public safety and nearby communities.
Residents questioned whether VHB could provide independent advice because the firm works with data center clients in other states. County staff defended VHB as qualified and cost-effective, but commissioners ultimately reversed course and instructed staff to review other consulting options. Commissioners also directed staff to reconsider establishing a resident task force after residents urged greater community involvement in the regulatory process.