Survey shows data centers face broad resistance in Kewanee
A community survey in Kewanee, Illinois, revealed broad resistance to a potential data center, with 80% of respondents strongly opposed. Primary concerns included water usage, environmental impact, and increased electricity demand. Residents expressed a desire for more data on these issues from officials.
A recent community survey in Kewanee, Illinois, indicates widespread public apprehension regarding the potential establishment of a data center in or near the city. Among 228 respondents, concerns about water usage and its impact on municipal supply, broader groundwater and environmental effects, and increased electricity demand were most frequently cited.
While respondents acknowledged potential benefits such as new jobs, increased tax revenue, and infrastructure improvements, a significant 80% reported not seeing significant advantages. Similarly, an overwhelming majority, nearly 80%, expressed strong opposition to a data center project.
Residents also highlighted the need for more information from city officials, requesting detailed data on water usage, environmental impact studies, electricity and utility cost projections, and job creation estimates before making a final judgment. The survey, which collected 183 written comments, reflects strong feelings on issues like noise, transparency, and the perceived balance of negatives outweighing positives.