Group says full transparency needed in data center discussion
Zachary Tacket of Creek Don't Rise Coalition is calling for transparency regarding a possible data center in Pikeville, Kentucky. He urges the public to scrutinize agreements with companies like Kentucky Power and American Electric Power, advocating for enforceable standards and community benefit payments to upgrade local infrastructure. Tacket emphasizes holding officials accountable while cautioning against outright rejection of the project, promoting a balanced approach.
Zachary Tacket, founder of the Creek Don't Rise Coalition, is advocating for full transparency and public scrutiny regarding a proposed data center in Pikeville, Kentucky. Tacket emphasizes the need for the community to understand the potential benefits and risks, particularly concerning the involvement of Kentucky Power and its parent company, American Electric Power (AEP), which he states stand to gain significantly from the project.
He encourages residents to thoroughly examine any agreements, ensuring they include enforceable standards for job creation and community benefit payments. Tacket points out that such agreements should mandate infrastructure upgrades, citing the area's inadequate water system as a key area where data center developers could contribute.
While urging caution and accountability from local officials, Tacket also advises against an outright rejection of the data center, acknowledging the potential for large tech companies like Meta, Amazon, and Apple to invest in and upgrade local infrastructure. He stresses the importance of finding a middle ground where the community benefits from the development rather than solely bearing the costs and risks.