Concerned residents protest new Data Center being built in Humboldt
Residents in Humboldt, Tennessee, are protesting a new data center in Gibson County, citing concerns over electricity and water usage, noise, and infrastructure costs, as well as a lack of transparency. Protesters gathered outside a mayoral meeting where local leaders and experts discussed the project amidst heated exchanges.
Residents of Humboldt, Tennessee, are vocalizing their opposition to a new data center slated for Gibson County. During a Monday evening meeting of the Humboldt Mayor and Aldermen, protesters gathered outside, expressing concerns about the project's potential impact on electricity and water consumption, noise levels, and infrastructure costs. Retina Gibbs, a Humboldt resident and protestor, highlighted worries about the credibility of an independent study provided by parties who stand to profit from the "Bitcoin mining facility."
Inside the meeting, Mayor Arthur Boykin convened three experts to address community concerns. The discussion grew heated, with an audience member demanding transparency and an industrial board member defending the project's credibility. Mayor Boykin intervened to restore calm. Project leaders emphasize that the facility is expected to have minimal impact while offering significant benefits, including an estimated $8.5 million in annual electric revenue for Humboldt Utilities. The data center is projected to be fully operational by August.