I’m writing because I am deeply worried about the idea of letting data centers run their diesel generators more often. This is a public health concern about the air our families breathe every single day.  

Many of these generators are extremely close to neighborhoods. They are in close proximity to fences, next to playgrounds, near schools and places where our kids run around. When those generators run, the pollution doesn’t stay on the data center’s property. It goes straight into the air that fills our homes and our children’s lungs.  And negative health conditions are sure to follow, especially for kids and seniors, which will put further strain on our healthcare system.

Not to mention the negative economic impact that unsafe air quality will have on the area’s overall desirability including declining real estate values, reduced business activity, and fewer people wanting to live or work here. The data centers and their associated transmission lines are already major eyesores, discouraging new families from moving in and prompting existing families to consider leaving.  Poor air quality is only going to make it worse.

Air is not optional. We depend on DEQ to protect it, and right now it feels like our health is being put second to industry convenience.

Please don’t move forward with this change.  We all deserve clean air.  Please protect it.