Will the AI Data Center Benefit Alexandria?
Alexandria mayoral candidates debated whether an AI data center being built near the city will generate enough tax revenue and economic benefits to justify potential impacts on water and utility infrastructure. One candidate supported the project and cited closed-loop water systems and planned CLECO infrastructure, while another called for safeguards and a moratorium over concerns about water use, pollution and limited permanent jobs.
Alexandria mayoral candidates discussed the economic and infrastructure implications of an AI data center under construction near the city. Councilman Larvidane said the project could generate substantial sales-tax revenue, support police, infrastructure and affordable housing, and create economic activity through construction employment. He said Allied Data Centers would use a closed-loop water system and that CLECO would build dedicated utility infrastructure, limiting impacts on Alexandria residents.
Candidate Davis disputed those claims, arguing that the data center could consume millions of gallons of water, damage local water and utility systems, and create relatively few permanent jobs once construction ends. Davis said that, if elected, he would seek guardrails and a moratorium until the community is prepared and the project provides adequate accountability. The candidates also disagreed over the accuracy and transparency of available data about the facility.