Candidate Insights
On September 15th, 2026, DCACDC held a Candidate Forum where the candidates for the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors and the County Attorneys would answer critical questions related to their stance on data centers. All four of the Board of Supervisors candidates were presented with four questions, and the two County Attorney candidates were presented two questions.
Board of Supervisors
Opening Speeches
Wayne Kenniker
Jason Davis
Rick Dickinson
Kristin Dietzel
Regarding the proposed 420 acre data center project, along with the additional targeted farmland which includes the area bordered by Olde Davenport Road, Laudeville Road, Feeney Road, and Highway 61, would you vote to approve a rezoning request for a data center at this location?
Question I
Wayne Kenniker
Jason Davis
Rick Dickinson
Kristin Dietzel
In May, prior to the recent increase in public attention and discussion, a national gallop poll found that 71% of Americans oppose data centers. The City of Dubuque showed 76% oppose data centers, and the City of Peosta's survey results were over 87% opposed. Do you agree with the citizens that data centers, as constructed today, do not belong anywhere within Dubuque County?
Question II
Wayne Kenniker
Jason Davis
Rick Dickinson
Kristin Dietzel
Question III
Do you believe the comprehensive plan does prioritize citizens' well being, farmland preservation, and natural resources over large-scale projects such as data centers?
Wayne Kenniker
Jason Davis
Rick Dickinson
Kristin Dietzel
Do you agree that compliance with all ordinance application requirements should not entitle a data center project to approval, and that the Board of Supervisors should retain discretion to deny the request?
Question IV
Wayne Kenniker
Jason Davis
Rick Dickinson
Kristin Dietzel
Wrap-Up Speeches
Wayne Kenniker
Jason Davis
Rick Dickinson
Kristin Dietzel
Attorney Candidates
Opening Speeches
Scott Nelson
Steve Drahozal
Question I
Do you agree the major purpose of zoning is to protect people and resources, not to find room for an industry such as a data center?
Scott Nelson
Steve Drahozal
While vetting the ordinance to ensure the language is legal and defendable without losing the intent of the language, would you seek help from an attorney that specializes in zoning and/or real estate?