Spokane Neighbors Demand Data Center Answers & Raise Concerns
Spokane County residents are actively opposing proposed data center plans in their area, citing concerns about noise pollution, environmental harm, and a lack of transparency. Community members are demanding answers from local leadership, including the Airway Heights City Council and Spokane County Commissioners.
Residents of Spokane County are voicing strong opposition to proposed data center developments, demanding clarity from local leadership on the future of these projects. The concerns were prominently raised during two active meetings this week, including a session with the Airway Heights City Council and another with Spokane County Commissioners.
The primary issues cited by residents include potential environmental harm, significant noise pollution, and a perceived lack of transparency and community involvement compared to the influence of developers. One speaker emphasized the community's distrust, stating that "we cannot accept the word of a company proposing their own safety regulations. They have every incentive on the planet to lie."
Brittany Anderson, a vocal resident active on social media regarding these plans, expressed frustration over the lack of substantive answers from officials despite specific inquiries. Reporter Rosemary Wright reached out to the commissioners regarding these concerns, and Commissioner Amber Waldref confirmed receiving over 2,000 comments on data centers in the past four months. Waldref noted her efforts to respond to constituents, though she stated she hasn't been directly involved in conversations with data center developers.
Spokane County previously hosted a public information session in August and has scheduled another for September 15th to address ongoing community questions and concerns.