Cedar rapids residents question data center water impacts at council meeting

Cedar Rapids residents raised questions about data centers' effects on the local water supply during a city council meeting July 14.

Robert Mullin, a Cedar Rapids resident, spoke about worries tied to the projects. "As a resident of the area just concerned about the impacts of the investments in the data centers. Of course we’ve heard a lot of their potential negative impact on the water supply, the water discharge, the water quality," Mullin said.

A third data center is planned for 1515 33rd Ave. SW, according to meeting coverage. The city confirmed the project July 8.

Linn County supervisors recently approved a moratorium on data centers, the report noted.

Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell said the city has not considered its own moratorium. "We’re really focused on economic development that meets the current needs and environment of our community," O’Donnell stated.

The discussion centered on how such facilities fit Cedar Rapids' manufacturing history while addressing resident questions about infrastructure.