Public input on the proposed data center brought forth contrasting viewpoints from residents. Dallas Larson highlighted the town’s stagnation in industrial development and urged the council to consider the data center as a potential solution to alleviate rising real estate taxes, which he claimed had increased by over 70% in a decade. Larson argued that, unlike recreational facilities, a data center could provide a new tax base for the city, referencing the Inveny facility as a prior successful development.

Conversely, Ryan Goken, an IT engineer, expressed skepticism about the job prospects the data center would bring. Goken raised concerns about the environmental impact and potential exploitation of local resources, drawing parallels to past oil booms. He emphasized the importance of negotiating for clear economic benefits and safeguards to avoid future burdens on the community should the development fail.

The council’s deliberations on Ordinance 410, which pertains to zoning regulations, further underscored the divisions within the community. There was a mix of caution and optimism, with some council members warning against the long-term implications of allowing data centers, fearing a potential exploitation of city resources. The ordinance ultimately passed with a 5 to 1 vote.

Traffic safety was another prominent focus of the meeting, as a speaker from Goodhue County Health and Humming Services presented on the “Toward Zero Deaths” initiative. The program aims to reduce traffic fatalities through a comprehensive approach involving engineering, education, enforcement, emergency services, and community involvement. The speaker noted the statistics of 477 traffic fatalities last year in Minnesota and emphasized the importance of continued education and proactive measures, particularly during the “100 deadly days of summer.”

Initiatives such as mock crash events at Cannon Falls High School were highlighted as effective educational tools, combining interactive elements with personal testimonies to resonate with students. Efforts at the adult detention center addressed the four main contributing factors to crashes: speed, impaired driving, distracted driving, and lack of seatbelt use. The presentation also addressed the rising incidence of ATV crashes, stressing the need for helmet use and caution when operating off-road vehicles.

Concerns were raised by council members about specific roadways, notably Highway 52 and Highway 17. Discussions revolved around the need for infrastructure improvements and the potential lowering of speed limits to enhance safety, especially for pedestrians and in school zones. The council expressed a desire for more immediate and responsive measures to protect vulnerable road users.

In council business, Resolution 2824 concerning annexation between Cannon Falls and Randolph Township was discussed. This resolution is tied to the anticipated data center development, addressing concerns about infrastructure obligations and the potential reversion of property to the township if the development does not proceed.

The meeting also covered reports from local food producer tours, a lead copper survey mandated by the EPA, and updates on ongoing infrastructure projects. There was an emphasis on community engagement, with references to recent events such as the Nights Unite gathering and a summer kickoff organized by the chamber of commerce. These events reflect the community’s vibrant social fabric and the council’s efforts to foster local involvement in civic matters.