Ames City Council | June 23, 2026

The Ames City Council held a regular meeting on June 23, 2026, with a significant focus on the proposed Light Edge data center project at the municipal airport. The council heard detailed presentations from city staff and Light Edge representatives regarding the project's scope, including phased construction of a 100,000 square foot facility with up to 25 megawatts of electrical demand over 10 years. Discussions covered lease terms for airport property, utility infrastructure upgrades estimated at $4 million for dedicated electrical feeders, and the closed-loop cooling system's minimal water usage. The council emphasized that no decisions were made during this meeting, with public input scheduled for a special session. Additionally, the council approved a contract renewal with the Ames Regional Economic Alliance and awarded a $463,760 contract to CB Solar Incorporated for solar panel installation on city facilities. Other agenda items included zoning amendments, pedestrian safety improvements on Lincoln Way, and infrastructure projects. Motions related to procurement included contract approvals and directing staff to assess lighting improvements for pedestrian safety. The meeting reflected careful consideration of infrastructure impacts, community concerns, and fiscal responsibility in advancing city projects.