New info released on possible Okmulgee data center project
New details have emerged about a proposed 200-acre data center project in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, sparking local concerns. A citizen-led committee has been established by the County Commission to review potential impacts. Residents voiced issues regarding water and electricity at a recent town hall meeting.
New details have been released regarding a proposed data center project in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. The prospective site, encompassing 200 acres, is located in the western part of Okmulgee on Madison Avenue, surrounding the Hodges Warehouse. County Emergency Management Director Jeff Moore and County Commissioner Steve Ward have already met with 3 Rivers Manufacturing, the property owner, concerning a future building permit.
Moore noted that some of the land is on a flood plain and that a land clearing permit has already been successfully applied for. He also indicated that developers will only need a final building permit from a fire marshal to proceed with construction, which will not be subject to a public vote. A key issue highlighted is that Okmulgee County currently lacks zoning regulations. The City of Okmulgee will be the source of water for the data center, making its decision crucial.
In response to growing public concern, the County Commission voted on Monday to establish a citizen-led committee. This committee's mandate is to review the potential impacts of the data center and provide input to elected officials. During a recent town hall meeting at the Okmulgee Community Center, residents expressed significant concerns about the project's potential effects on local water and electricity resources. Natasha Musser, a local resident, expressed confidence that community voices can influence the City of Okmulgee's decision regarding water supply.