LETTER: Mike Brosius (3/17/29)

Read Mike’s letter to the editor in the Seaside Signal

March 19, 2026

Data center wrong for prime county property

Our community has a wonderful opportunity ahead: thoughtfully shaping how the county-owned site near Costco is developed for the long-term benefit of everyone who lives here.

As a candidate for Clatsop County commissioner, I’ve been doing my homework on one proposal that has come up—a data center of that approximately 135-acre site. I wanted to share what I’ve learned, because an informed community makes for better decisions.

A typical data center requires roughly 200 acres—larger than the entire available site. It employes 15-30 people. At the same time, these facilities use enormous resources: enough electricity to power 25,000 to 50,000 households each day and enough water for 10,000-15,000 households daily, and with technology changes a short lifespan.

Because of these factors, I spoke with County Manager Don Bohn several months ago and made it clear that this is the type of project I would strongly oppose as your County Commissioner.

This is exactly the kind of careful, fact-based evaluation I would bring to every decision as your county commissioner. Throughout my career at Costco, I learned to study the details, ask the right questions, seek expert input and draw on expertise already present in any room. I carry that same approach into my work with local nonprofit boards — and I will bring it to every decision I make if elected to serve you.

Our county has so much to offer, and I’m committed to making sure any development on this site—or any other—truly reflects our community’s values and long-term vision. I look forward to earning your trust and your vote.

Mike Brosius, Astoria