Residents rally against proposed AI data center, protesters call for bipartisan collaboration
Residents in Maryville, Missouri, are actively protesting a proposed $6.3 billion AI data center by Scale Microgrids, forming a coalition called 'Nodaway Says No'. Concerns center on water usage, environmental impacts, noise, light pollution, and the use of farmland. Protesters are urging the Nodaway County Commission to enact a moratorium on data center development.
Residents of Maryville, Missouri, and Nodaway County are actively protesting a proposed artificial intelligence data center project by Scale Microgrids, an energy company. The community became aware of the potential $6.3 billion development south of Maryville in April, prompting the formation of a coalition called 'Nodaway Says No' to oppose it.
Demonstrations, such as one held on June 13, have drawn significant community turnout, with local activist Nancy Zeliff highlighting widespread bipartisan opposition. Protesters, including Gretchen Wehmeyer, voiced fears over potential water usage and contamination, depletion of natural resources, and the impact on local quality of life. Concerns also extend to increased traffic and noise, light pollution, and the exploitation of farmland.
Protester Rob Duvall specifically called for the Nodaway County Commission to implement a moratorium on data center development to allow for more cautious consideration. Scale Microgrids is expected to make a final decision on the project by the end of the month, as residents continue to advocate for transparency and against the project's perceived negative outcomes.