PETITION OPPOSING DATA CENTER DEVELOPMENT
ADDRESSED TO THE CITY PLANNING AUTHORITY OF Stroud
To the City Planning Authority of Stroud:
We, the undersigned residents, property owners, and stakeholders of Stroud, Oklahoma, respectfully submit this petition in strong opposition to the approval, zoning, permitting, or development of data centers within the City of Stroud and its surrounding planning jurisdiction.
WHEREAS, data centers are industrial-scale facilities requiring extensive and continuous water usage for cooling, placing measurable strain on local water systems and long-term resource sustainability; and
WHEREAS, such developments necessitate substantial electrical infrastructure, potentially increasing costs to residents, overburdening existing systems, and requiring upgrades that may be subsidized by the public; and
WHEREAS, large-scale site development associated with data centers can significantly alter land conditions, increasing stormwater runoff, erosion, and drainage issues that threaten both public infrastructure and private property; and
WHEREAS, the noise, heat output, visual impact, and industrial character of data centers are inconsistent with the existing land use patterns, rural identity, and community expectations of Stroud; and
WHEREAS, the long-term economic benefits of data centers are often limited in terms of permanent local employment, while the environmental and infrastructure impacts are enduring; and
WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of city planners to ensure that development aligns with the comprehensive plan, protects public resources, and reflects the will and welfare of the community;
NOW, THEREFORE, we respectfully request that the City Planning Authority of Stroud:
Deny any current or future applications for zoning changes, permits, or approvals related to data center development;
Refrain from designating or rezoning land for uses that would allow such facilities;
Require comprehensive, independent impact studies before consideration of any future proposals of similar scale;
Prioritize development that is compatible with the character, infrastructure capacity, and long-term sustainability of the community;
Ensure meaningful public participation and transparency in all planning decisions involving large-scale industrial projects.
This petition reflects the collective position of community members who seek to protect the integrity, resources, and future of Stroud, Oklahoma.