To the Elected Officials and Community Leaders of Urbana:

We, the undersigned business owners, citizens of Urbana & Champaign County, and individuals who love this area, respectfully express our opposition to the proposed data center project.

A data center is a large industrial facility that houses high-powered computer servers and operates
around the clock. These facilities require enormous amounts of electricity, significant cooling systems,
and industrial backup generators to function continuously.

Location and Community Impact. The proposed site is near our new school, a local nursing home,
and nearby condominium residences. Placing an energy-intensive industrial facility in close proximity to children, seniors, and homeowners raises serious concerns about noise, air quality, traffic, and
long-term quality of life.

Health and Environmental Risks. Large data centers rely on heavy electrical infrastructure and diesel backup generators. Communities nationwide have raised concerns about low-frequency noise, air emissions, and strain on water and energy resources. The long-term health implications for surrounding neighborhoods deserve careful and transparent evaluation.

Higher Utility Costs. Data centers consume extraordinary amounts of electricity. In other communities, residents and small businesses have experienced rate increases and cost shifting related to grid upgrades and infrastructure expansion. Urbana households and small businesses should not bear financial risk to support a single industrial user.

Land Use and Preservation. Urbana is known for its character, green space, and proximity to valued
local nature preserves. Once industrialized, this land cannot be returned to its natural state. Protecting our open land, preserving environmental integrity, and supporting thoughtful development must remain priorities.

Transparency and Responsible Governance. We call for full public transparency regarding tax
incentives, infrastructure commitments, environmental studies, and long-term financial impacts.
Decisions of this magnitude must be made openly, with meaningful community engagement and
independent analysis.

The decisions made in this moment will define Urbana’s trajectory for decades. As elected and
appointed leaders, you will be held accountable for whether this project strengthens or undermines the health, character, and economic stability of our community. Leadership requires careful stewardship, not rushed approvals or incomplete disclosure.

Urbana’s future should be guided by responsible growth that protects residents, small businesses,
schools, seniors, and our natural environment. No Data Centers in Urbana, Ohio.

Bill Bean

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