Google holds private data center meeting in Little Rock

Google recently held a private meeting in Little Rock, Arkansas, regarding its proposed data center development, fueling further debate in Central Arkansas. While some attendees were invited inside, others were excluded and stood outside demanding answers concerning the project's impact on water, power, and noise. Critics voiced frustration over what they described as a lack of clear answers about two data centers in Pulaski County, accusing Google of not being transparent about potential impacts on animals and people.

Bob Edwards, an invited attendee, reported that Google representatives described the data center near the port of Little Rock as being in early stages, though they did not provide specific site details. He noted that Google assured attendees that electric utility ratepayers' bills would not increase due to the Google site. However, for many residents, the private nature of the meeting itself was a point of concern, leading to clear statements against data centers in Central Arkansas, with calls to "fight them" and "kick them out."

Google issued a statement, asserting that the meeting was one of many conversations and that the company is committed to an open, transparent, and collaborative process. Members of the media and those not initially invited were directed to a separate, brief session that provided no new information and restricted recording devices. THV11's Katherine Rowley reported that organizers did not respond to questions and indicated more such private meetings would occur.