Palo, Iowa, is more than just a dot on the map. It's where I grew up and where my parents still reside. It's a beautiful stretch of farm country dotted with verdant fields and outdoor spaces perfect for family gatherings and community events. This small town is a haven for its residents and a tightly-knit community that cherishes its open spaces and rural character. But now, that cherished way of life is under threat.

A significant data center project is proposed to be built in Palo, threatening not just the landscape, but the very fabric of this town. Large data centers consume vast amounts of energy and water, potentially straining our local resources, and altering the peaceful environment that we all hold dear. The construction will likely lead to increased traffic, noise pollution, and impact local wildlife — changes that could irrevocably alter the community’s charm.

As a former resident, we deserve to have our voices heard and to influence developments that significantly affect our lives. However, the city council has overlooked our concerns. They have failed to acknowledge the collective voice of the community that does not want this data center.

Data centers might be essential in our digital world, but they do not belong in a town like Palo. Instead, we should be investing in solutions that align with the town's identity and values, such as supporting local agriculture, preserving natural habitats, and boosting sustainable tourism that highlights our rural beauty.

We call upon the Palo city council to reconsider this decision. Let’s pursue alternative land uses that enhance rather than detract from our community's character. Our voices matter, and together we can ensure that Palo remains the vibrant, serene haven it has always been.

We call upon Linn County Government to reconsider allowing all Data Centers within Unicorperated Linn County areas, including but not limited to Palo, Iowa to ensure all small towns remain rural without interruption or integration of Data Centers and the destruction they cause the surrounding areas.

Please sign this petition to stop the construction of the data center in Palo. Help us protect our home, way of life, and the lush green countryside that defines this beloved community. Together, we can make a difference.

Discussion makers in Palo are the following-

Bryan Busch as Mayor, Taylor Burgin as Council Member, Jen Wilton as Council Member, Darren Soltenburg as Council Member, Erik Van Kerckhove as Council Member, and Doug Hanover as Council Member

Discussion makers for Linn County are the following-

Kirsten Running-Marquardt | District 1 - Chair 2026, Sami Scheetz | District 2- 2026 Vice Chair, and Brandy Z. Meisheid | District 3