Quiet Data Centers

Asked what environmental assessments have been done on the data center and when the results will be public.

Demanded an immediate halt to permitting and incentives until an independent environmental and economic impact study is done, citing water use, backup redundancy and wetlands concerns.

A part-time Enfield resident and hunter for 57 years, he said past promises about buffers near his property weren't kept and cited AI research that data center hum can affect wildlife and pets within a half-mile to two miles.

Raised questions about environmental resource impacts, health effects, energy and water consumption, habitat loss, and whether contingency plans exist if the project does not proceed as presented.

Said she was in agreement with what Enfield Mayor Robinson would say.

Said she agreed with whatever Mayor Robinson would say and wanted the project to move forward.

Said she would agree with whatever Mayor Robinson said.

Said she agreed with what Mayor Robinson would say.

Had nothing to say but agreed with Mayor Robinson.

Said he agreed with Mayor Robinson.

Asked whether the 45-decibel design figure covered generators or just the data center, whether generators would be enclosed, and after supportive remarks said the $1.75 million revenue is about 3% of the county budget and equaled 900 new $200,000 homes.

Asked whether the project would lower or raise taxes; Chairman Bryant said on behalf of the board that taxes will not increase as a result. She also said she agreed with Mayor Robinson.

Said she agreed with Mayor Robinson.

Submitted 40 written questions, demanded to know who the company is and its track record, pressed on inaudible shock-wave impacts on people and animals, questioned EMC power claims, and said he was disappointed in the board's transparency.

Wanted to know what's in it for residents — whether tax money will reduce taxes or fund schools — and questioned how electricity costs could be kept separate; the EMC CEO explained metering and contracting.

A former county manager, he said he came with an open mind after seeing negative data center coverage, visited data centers in Virginia, and argued the added revenue helps avoid future property tax increases; recalled a South Hill manager's only complaint was how to spend the surplus.

Supported the project from an economic standpoint, noting the ~$1.75 million revenue equals about a 3.5-cent tax rate relief, and asked about generator emissions and wildlife noise impacts.