Madras city leaders are pushing back against online rumors about a possible data center development in Jefferson County, issuing a formal statement Wednesday to set the record straight.

Interim City Administrator David Clyne confirmed that the city is not currently reviewing or entertaining any proposal to build a data center in Madras — and that no related action is pending before the City Council.

"To be clear, the City is not currently entertaining a proposal for locating a data center in Madras, and there are no related public actions pending before the City Council."

— David Clyne, Interim City Administrator

The statement came after social media speculation swirled in Jefferson County following a notable development in La Pine, where city leaders unanimously voted down a proposed 20-megawatt data center in May after weeks of intense public opposition.

Why the Rumors Started

Data centers have become a hot-button issue across Central Oregon and the broader Pacific Northwest as tech companies seek large parcels of affordable land with reliable power and water access. Communities like La Pine and others have seen proposed projects spark heated debates over water use, infrastructure strain, economic benefit, and community character.

Clyne acknowledged in his statement that data centers have become "a politically sensitive topic in many communities, including here locally" and said city staff are listening to resident concerns.

What the City Is Saying

Rather than simply denying the rumors, Clyne used the statement to offer a broader framework for how Madras would handle any future large-scale development proposals:

  • Decisions would be informed by reliable data and sound planning
  • Proposals would consider impacts on water resources, wastewater infrastructure, and power supply
  • Any project requiring City action would go through appropriate public process
  • Residents are encouraged to participate constructively and share concerns with city leadership

The statement was posted to the City of Madras Facebook page, where community members have been actively commenting on regional data center news.

Context for Jefferson County

Jefferson County sits along the U.S. Highway 97 corridor, where growth pressure from Bend and Redmond has steadily increased. The county offers relatively inexpensive land and proximity to major transmission infrastructure, factors that have attracted outside attention.

The City of Madras is also currently in the midst of a search for a permanent city administrator following the January resignation of Will Ibershof, making major policy commitments unlikely in the near term.

Residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to attend City Council meetings or contact City Hall directly at (541) 475-2344.