Iowa group works to inform communities about data center projects

News Clip0:50KCCI·Marshalltown, Marshall County, IA·8/5/2026

A new statewide advocacy group in Iowa, "Growing Iowa's Economy," has formed to provide factual information to communities about data center projects. The group, comprising unions, chambers of commerce, and companies, aims to ensure residents and local officials make informed decisions, especially in areas facing "headwinds" or opposition to these projects.

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A new statewide advocacy group, "Growing Iowa's Economy," has been established in Iowa with the aim of educating residents and local officials about upcoming data center projects. Comprising 30 unions, chambers of commerce, and various companies across the state, the group's objective is to ensure that communities receive accurate information to make informed decisions regarding these developments.

John Hall, President of the Marshalltown Chamber of Commerce and a member of the group, clarified that the organization does not universally endorse all data center projects. Instead, they focus on providing factual context to help communities navigate potential "headwinds," suggesting a need to balance discussions where current information might be skewed or incomplete. The group plans to expand its efforts to reach more communities across Iowa.