The primary focus of the meeting was a two-part application involving a preliminary plat and a preliminary planned unit development (PUD) for the technology park, coupled with the rezoning of approximately 340 acres of land. The developer, known as TRCT, had previously presented a similar rezone application but had tabled it due to community concerns. This time, the developer sought approval for the PUD and preliminary plat to ensure stricter development standards and community oversight.

During the public hearing, many residents voiced their opposition to the proposed data center, primarily due to concerns about noise, environmental impact, and the preservation of the community’s character. He reassured that the standards would be legally binding through a development contract.

A key issue raised was the potential noise disturbance from the data centers. Residents pointed out that the ambient noise levels in their neighborhood were much lower than the legal standards, which could allow the data center to produce noise levels up to 65 dB during the day and 55 dB at night. Concerns were also highlighted about tonal noise, a low-frequency noise linked to health problems and sleep disturbances, which was inadequately addressed in discussions.

Environmental concerns were also prominent. One resident emphasized the potential impact on local water resources, noting the data center’s high water consumption for cooling systems. Another resident, Jason Fuller, articulated that the change to industrial use threatened property values and quality of life, arguing that the proposal did not align with protecting neighborhoods and natural resources.

Several residents, including Denise May and David Pallo, opposed the rezoning of the Fountain Valley Golf Course and the Angus property. They cited the city’s comprehensive plan, which advocates for maintaining and enhancing existing neighborhoods, and expressed concerns about the long-term implications for housing demand and community character. May presented a petition signed by nearly 300 residents against the rezoning of the golf course, emphasizing the significant impact on the quality of life for nearby residents.

A representative of the applicant addressed the concerns about noise and water usage. While a noise study was not currently available, it was noted that any future phases of the project would require one, and the data center would comply with Minnesota law regarding noise levels. The representative also highlighted that the city’s water system had the capacity to support the project.

The discussion also covered the proposed substation, with questions about design standards and its impact on local homeowners’ wells. It was confirmed that the project would utilize city water, assuring that there would be no negative effect on private wells. The project was anticipated to create around 273 full-time jobs at full buildout, with approximately 1,500 construction jobs across various trades.

As the commission considered the public’s input, they acknowledged the importance of balancing developmental aspirations with community standards. Concerns about potential disruptions to local residents due to construction and traffic were addressed, with assurances that infrastructure improvements would be covered by the developer. The commission emphasized the need for thorough assessments of noise, environmental impact, and adherence to the comprehensive plan before making a final decision.

In addition to the data center discussion, the meeting also reviewed the Vermillion Commons Fourth Edition Final Plat and Planned Unit Development (PUD). This proposal involved 67 single-family lots spread over approximately 26 acres, with access and safety measures addressed by the developer. The commission expressed satisfaction with the plans presented and unanimously recommended approval to the city council, contingent upon meeting engineering requirements and executing a development contract.