Ottawa Development News
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Ottawa Proclaims Countdown to 250th Anniversary of Declaration of Independence
The City Commission recognized the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a proclamation designating June 17th, 2026, as the countdown to the United States Semi-Quincentennial in Ottawa, Kansas. The proclamation encourages citizens to reflect on American ideals and commemorate the milestone through local projects. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) accepted the proclamation and invited commissioners to their July 4th celebration at the courthouse steps, which will include a reading of the Declaration of Independence. The DAR highlighted their commitment to historic preservation, education, and patriotism, emphasizing the importance of remembering the sacrifices made for liberty and self-government.
Data Center Water Demand, Environmental Risks, and Transparency Issues Dominate Resident Concerns
Residents voiced concerns about the financial and environmental implications of proposed data centers, particularly regarding water usage and transparency. Susan Hughes criticized the high water demand of data centers, mentioning one proposal for 5 million gallons per day, and warned about potential water shortages. She also condemned the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) for such decisions. Ramona Martin echoed worries about chemical contamination of water systems and the impact on agriculture and wildlife. Tab White emphasized the lack of clear information and transparency, stating that secrecy breeds distrust and that the city should provide straightforward details on its website. Chris Mays presented a case study of a data center's impact on a wastewater facility in Washington and highlighted potential health risks from generator emissions, citing studies on increased pollutants and associated damages. Kendra Titus expressed concerns about noise, vibration, and their effects on animals and human health, urging the commission to protect the land.
Residents Voice Strong Concerns Over Data Center's Water Use, Environmental Impact, and Transparency
During public comments, residents expressed significant concerns regarding the potential impact of a proposed data center, primarily focusing on water usage, environmental pollution, and lack of transparency. Susan Hughes highlighted the potential for data centers to deplete water supplies, citing examples of other cities facing shortages. She also criticized the use of non-disclosure agreements, arguing that such important decisions should be made openly. Ramona Martin echoed concerns about water contamination from data center chemicals and the potential harm to agriculture and wildlife. Tab White emphasized the lack of clear information and communication surrounding the project, stating that secrecy breeds distrust and that the city needs to be transparent about the logistics. Chris Mays presented a case study from Quincey, Washington, where a municipal wastewater facility was unprepared for total dissolved solids (TDS) released from a data center, leading to a 14-year remediation period. Mays also raised concerns about generator emissions and the potential for increased pollutants affecting children's health, citing a Virginia Commonwealth University study and a scenario where data centers requested to run backup generators continuously during grid stress. Kendra Titus, a county resident close to the proposed site, voiced concerns about noise, vibration, and their effects on animals and human health, citing a Texas study on animal production and research indicating proximity effects on human health. She urged the commission to protect the land for future generations.
Data Center Emissions and Wastewater Contamination Raise Health and Environmental Alarms
Chris Mays presented concerns about the potential environmental and health impacts of data centers, citing a case study from Quincey, Washington, where a wastewater reclamation facility struggled with total dissolved solids (TDS) released from a data center. Mays noted that initial permits did not require TDS testing, and it took 14 years for the city to address the issue, during which time TDS levels were found to be above permissible ranges. He also highlighted that the Department of Ecology granted a grace period for constructing a treatment facility. Mays advised the commission to be educated on protective measures before data centers are approved, as regulations often lag behind. He also mentioned a Virginia Commonwealth University study indicating sharp increases in emissions from data center generators, potentially leading to significant health damages, including premature deaths, and noted that data centers requested continuous operation of backup generators during grid stress in January 2026. Mayor Clayton's participation in a Kansas Municipal Utilities Summit training was noted positively.
Data Center Proposal Sparks Fears of Noise, Water Contamination, and Health Risks
Residents raised concerns about the potential negative impacts of a proposed data center, particularly its noise, vibration, and the potential for chemical contamination of water systems. Kendra Titus, who lives in the county near the proposed site, described the expected noise as a 'throbbing, throbbing, throbbing' sound that affects animals and potentially human health within a 2.5 to 5-mile radius. Ramona Martin also expressed worry about chemicals polluting water systems and harming farmers, cattle, and wildlife. Chris Mays shared a case study from Quincey, Washington, where a wastewater facility struggled with total dissolved solids (TDS) from a data center, and warned of potential health risks from generator emissions, citing studies showing increased pollutants and associated health damages, including premature deaths. Susan Hughes highlighted the large water demand of data centers and the risk of water shortages, while Tab White criticized the lack of transparency and communication surrounding the project, suggesting secrecy implies a problem.
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6-17-26 Commission Meeting
Were you around when the Old Depot Museum caboose was relocated? Check out these great shots of the relocation project....
Were you around when the Old Depot Museum caboose was relocated? Check out these great shots of the relocation project....
Exciting announcement with Plaza 1907! #OttawaKS
There are so many exciting things happening in Ottawa this summer! And the events for the Fourth of July holiday...
Coming to you in color today! Join us at the United by the Game event at 2 pm! #OttawaKS
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