Data centers have loud opposition, but supporters gathered at Missouri S&T to push them
Missouri recently hosted a Governor's Forum on Artificial Intelligence and Data Centers at Missouri S&T, promoting their benefits while acknowledging local concerns. Despite the state's efforts to attract data centers, some communities, including Rolla, are considering moratoriums due to public opposition over resource use and transparency.
A Governor's Forum on Artificial Intelligence and Data Centers was held at Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, Missouri, to advocate for data center development in the state. Over 200 business, academic, and government leaders attended the event, which was also streamed online.
Missouri S&T Chancellor Mo Dehghani and Governor Mike Kehoe emphasized the potential economic benefits and job creation, stating that Missouri can responsibly welcome data centers without sacrificing common sense. They acknowledged concerns about energy, land, water, and infrastructure, but suggested that many opposing views are fueled by "misinformation campaigns."
Despite this pro-development stance, approximately three dozen protesters from Rolla and the surrounding area gathered outside the forum, expressing environmental justice concerns about water, air, and land. Suzanne Hume of CleanEarth4Kids cited a Gallup poll indicating 71% American opposition to data centers in their communities, driven by worries over increased utility rates and lack of transparency.
Local governments across Missouri are demonstrating growing wariness. The approval of a data center in Festus led to four council members losing reelection and recall petitions against the mayor and three council members. The St. Charles City Council has passed a measure effectively prohibiting data centers within its city limits. Even in Rolla, the forum's host city, the city council unanimously voted to draft a data center moratorium for consideration, citing concerns about rapid development and potential unforeseen impacts.