Residents urge caution on surveillance cameras and warn of child health risks tied to proposed data center

Several public commenters used their allotted time to highlight two separate but urgent local concerns: widespread use of private surveillance systems run in partnership with public agencies, and potential health risks to children from industrial pollution tied to a proposed data center.

"Flock cameras are provided by a private institution...but they're illegally ran by a public, institution," Sam White said during public comment, arguing the devices infringe constitutional rights and urging the commission to bring the issue to a vote. White urged commissioners to coordinate with law enforcement and move the matter quickly.

Separately, Colleen Groulette and Susan Hughes described children's particular vulnerability to air pollution and the need for precaution while project details remain uncertain. "Children breathe more air for their body weight than adults," Groulette said, citing EPA guidance on children's sensitivity to pollution. Susan Hughes raised concerns about closed-loop cooling fluids that require heavy chemical treatment and periodic flushing; she said the community lacks testing and treatment systems to manage that wastewater.

Speakers asked the commission to prioritize health and privacy concerns over prospective economic benefits and to provide clearer channels for citizen engagement on such matters.