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Urbana City Council officials confirmed potential interest in a data center near the city after local resident Brad Winner expressed concerns about transparency during a council meeting. The city had approved a new Community Reinvestment Area (CRA 2), which sparked discussions regarding 'mega projects' and potential developments.

Director of Administration Spencer Mitchell stated the city was approached by a property owner interested in developing a data center, although no site plans have been submitted. CRA 2 includes various areas around Urbana, raising concerns from residents about its implications.

Additionally, Thor Equities has acquired land in Ohio for data center development and purchased 47.6 acres near Urbana. Another LLC purchased 85.6 acres in Urbana, though no direct connection to Thor has been established. Data centers are increasingly prevalent and controversial across the U.S.