The proposed AI data center, Data 1, drew sharp criticism from residents who questioned the council’s approval of the project despite ongoing community concerns. Avery Iverson, a resident, voiced disappointment over the council’s decision, highlighting anticipated noise increases and potential negative impacts on property values and local wildlife. Iverson’s concerns were echoed by Jenna Hulet Williams, who criticized the lack of transparency from both the local government and developers. Williams argued that the pilot program, which offers tax breaks to the company, would deprive the local school system of over $844,000, potentially affecting funding for approximately 14 teacher salaries. She urged the council to reject the pilot program, emphasizing the financial implications for the community.

Roger Merl referenced an article from The Guardian, discussing the lack of political opposition to data center developments, and noted that activism had led to the cancellation of 25 similar projects. He compared the data center unfavorably to past developments that failed to deliver promised advantages, urging the council to consider the burden placed on residents and public schools by approving the pilot program. Katrina Lampropoulos, another resident, expressed dismay over the changes to the community due to the data center project, raising concerns about health effects, pollution, and the misallocation of taxpayer money.

Zach Landisini presented documentation from Cyclia, a company involved with Data 1, indicating the use of hazardous materials, challenging the council’s previous waiver of environmental studies based on a lack of such materials. He stressed the importance of conducting a comprehensive environmental impact study before proceeding with any development or funding agreements. Landisini highlighted a water consumption study estimating that a single data center building would consume over 100 million gallons of water per year, urging the council to address unresolved concerns regarding the project’s expansion.

The council also faced scrutiny over the proposed pilot tax agreements that would provide substantial tax breaks to developers of the data center. A council member questioned the project’s viability if it could not proceed without a $300 million budget, including a $293 million mortgage from Nebas and a $6 million loan from the city. They expressed skepticism about the timing of the PILOT agreement, asking why it was not introduced earlier in the process to ensure financial viability. Public comments included expressions of frustration over the lack of transparency and engagement from the council, with residents questioning the potential benefits of the tax incentives for the community.

Additional concerns were raised about the infrastructure implications of the data center, including its impact on local gas supply and the electrical grid. A resident named Larry criticized the council’s engagement and transparency, recounting previous experiences of feeling misled during interactions with council members. He questioned the integrity of council members regarding potential stock holdings in Nebas, implying conflicts of interest.

Despite the discussions, the council proceeded with other agenda items, including the recognition of retiring police officers. Resolutions were adopted to acknowledge the retirements of Alan Pagnini and Alberto Rosario, both set to retire on January 1, 2026. The council expressed gratitude for their service, approving the transfer of their duty weapons as tokens of recognition. Pagnini attended the meeting, expressing appreciation for the support he received throughout his career.

The council also considered several ordinances related to local development. Ordinance 2025-93, which authorizes a pilot agreement for project tax exemption for various applicants, was adopted with unanimous approval. Other ordinances, including those involving the acquisition of land for a youth sports facility and the conversion of a single-family home into an automobile repair garage, were introduced and passed without public comment during their hearings.