Rep. Chris Smith, local officials oppose AI data centers in Ocean County, New Jersey
U.S. Congressman Chris Smith has joined Ocean County and Manchester Township officials in opposing the development of AI data centers in the area. They cite significant concerns over potential impacts on local resources, including water and electricity, and the environment. The opposition supports a recently adopted county resolution encouraging municipalities to establish land-use safeguards.
U.S. Congressman Chris Smith has publicly aligned with Ocean County and Manchester Township officials to express strong opposition against the development of AI data centers in the region. Their primary concerns revolve around the potential strain on local resources such as water and electricity, as well as broader environmental impacts and financial burdens on residents.
Rep. Smith met with Manchester Township Mayor Joseph Hankins, Public Works Director Al Yodakis, and Ocean County Commissioner Rob Arace to discuss their collective efforts to curb data center proliferation. He voiced strong support for a resolution recently adopted by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, which urges municipalities to conduct thorough due diligence and implement robust land-use safeguards before approving any data center projects.
Smith emphasized the importance of residents' voices being heard, asserting that "the reasonable concerns of local residents must no longer be steamrolled by tech companies seeking profit over Americans’ quality of life—not on my watch." Officials also discussed general community issues, including roadway, environmental, and public safety, and explored potential federal assistance for local initiatives.