09/02/2026
It has been brought to my attention that questions and rumors have arisen following livestreams of last month’s Marquez EDC and City Council meetings, particularly regarding why I attended as president of the Marquez Area Chamber of Commerce.
Let me be 100% clear: The Chamber is not involved in the ongoing data center matter, and we have not taken a position either supporting or opposing the data centers.
The livestream began before the meeting had even started. Questions have apparently been raised about why I was whispering with the city secretary and the mayor during that time. We were simply discussing a grooming appointment for Lauren’s dog, who has been a client of mine for years. That conversation had absolutely nothing to do with the data centers or any city business.
The Chamber was on the agendas for two specific reasons:
1. To discuss forming a planning and building committee between the City, EDC, and Chamber. This committee would explore the development of a pavilion and new community center that could provide a clean, safe place for elections, birthday parties, community gatherings, and other local events.
2. To request approval to plant a memorial tree in honor of a Chamber board member who recently passed away unexpectedly.
I also want to clarify Agenda Item X. This item was not discussed during the meeting. Its intended purpose was simply to consider whether, if the data centers do come to Marquez, we might approach them about funding or donating toward the community building project. Considering the possibility of requesting a future donation does not mean the Chamber supports or opposes the data centers. The Chamber has taken no position on that issue.
For complete transparency, I am attaching copies of both meeting agendas showing the specific items involving the Chamber. These agendas confirm exactly why the Chamber and I were present.
If anyone has questions or concerns about the Chamber, how it is operated, or anything that has happened in the past, we are an open book. All meeting agendas, minutes, and financial records are maintained in the Chamber office and are available upon request. We have been completely transparent in all dealings of the reorganized Chamber, and we will continue to operate that way.
Our Chamber meetings are open to everyone. We invite anyone who is interested to attend, ask questions, and learn more about what we are doing for our community.
If you have questions or concerns about the Chamber or my role as Chamber president, I welcome you to speak with me directly. I own and operate Pup in the Tub and Double S Services, so I am not difficult to find. Please come talk to me instead of relying on rumors or drawing false conclusions.
Thank you,
Sheri Schmal
President, Marquez Area Chamber of Commerce
