Christian County looking into possible data center -- hosts meeting to inform community

Christian County is exploring the development of a multi-billion dollar data center by Eagle Rock Partners, proposed for a location just north of Clarksdale. The project, which is in its early stages with construction not expected until 2028, is anticipated to create over 1,000 temporary construction jobs and approximately 500 permanent jobs with an average annual salary of $100,000.

However, the proposal has met with skepticism and concerns from some community members, including local farmer Brent, who opposes data centers in the area due to potential negative side effects on wildlife and the removal of farmland. Key concerns raised by residents include the data center's significant water and power consumption. Ken Lober, a partner with Eagle Rock, addressed these issues by stating that the company would fund all off-site power infrastructure, ensuring it would not raise residents' rates. Regarding water use, Lober explained the data center would use a closed-loop cooling system, requiring less than a water bottle a day for refills, and primarily use water for workers, estimating 20,000 gallons per day, comparable to a car wash or golf course.

Matthew Heart, Executive Director of the Christian County Economic Development Corporation, affirmed the county's commitment to ensuring any promises made by developers are delivered, potentially by incorporating requirements into the zoning request. He assured citizens that further informational meetings would be held and no immediate action on the project is planned. Despite the developers' efforts to address concerns, opposition remains strong, with a petition circulating for an 18-month moratorium on data center construction in Christian County, similar to measures passed in nearby Champaign and Logan counties.