Myth vs. Fact

While there is a 100% exemption on real property improvements, AWS will make annual PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) payments. This is a "revenue optimizer" that will generate $1 million annually—exponentially more than the current agricultural yield of roughly $5,000.

Wilmington has a massive surplus of 4.5 million gallons per day (MGD) from Caesar Creek Lake that currently goes unused. AWS will purchase a portion of this dormant asset, which helps lower utility costs for all residents.

Without controls, hot water (thermal pollution) can damage the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The proposed Community Benefit Agreement addresses this by requiring a Thermal Cap that mandates AWS cool discharge to within 5°F of ambient levels before it enters the city pipes.

Because the payments are structured as a PILOT (non-tax revenue), they do not trigger the state formula that reduces aid when a district's property valuation spikes. This ensures the schools keep the full $1 million.

The noise is actually a low-frequency "hum" from cooling fans. While not high-pitched, it can be distressing. The proposed Community Benefit Agreement includes C-weighted (dBC) noise limits to specifically regulate these deep vibrations, not just overall volume.

The proposed Community Benefit Agreement includes local hiring preferences (30% for construction, 20% for permanent staff) and a direct partnership with Laurel Oaks to train local residents for these $80,000/year jobs. This ensures the community benefits directly from employment opportunities.

AWS is funding $25 million in mandatory infrastructure upgrades. If the city did this alone, it would require a massive bond and a significant hike in every resident's monthly bill. AWS is essentially subsidizing infrastructure that benefits all residents.