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I am writing to share my thoughts on the proposed Data Center, following up on our recent conversation.
Overall, I strongly support this project for several reasons:
1. Noise Ordinances: Existing noise regulations are already in place. If the business operates within these guidelines, there is no issue. If they exceed them, standard enforcement steps will handle it.
2. Lighting Ordinances: Similarly, lighting regulations already exist, and the company must comply with them.
3. Water Supply: Water Works confirmed supply is sufficient. Additionally, the owners have offered to fund any necessary infrastructure corrections if an issue arises.
4. Power Infrastructure: Alliant Energy has confirmed they can support the power requirements without issue.
5. Economic Benefit: The data center will generate additional property tax revenue for Marshalltown without requiring tax breaks or incentives, and without placing extra demands on city services (such as police, fire, schools, or street maintenance, etc).
While a manufacturing facility bringing 1,000 high-salaried jobs would be ideal, that is not currently an option. A similar project -- such as a 60,000-square-foot warehouse storing automated equipment -- would likely not face this level of resistance. Welcoming this data center signals that Marshalltown is open to high-tech industry development.
Conversely, rejecting this revenue opportunity means the city may need to consider raising property taxes or cutting public services, such as road repairs, parks, emergency services, and utility support.
I hope this helps clarify my position on the matter.