Iowa businesses, unions form data center group aimed at responsible development
A new bipartisan group, "Growing Iowa's Economy," has formed to advocate for the responsible development of data centers across Iowa. Comprised of businesses, economic groups, and unions, the group aims to attract data center investment while addressing concerns such as noise, water usage, and electricity prices. They emphasize that energy costs should not be passed to residents and that new developments should minimize local and environmental impact.
A new bipartisan organization, "Growing Iowa's Economy," has been established to champion the responsible expansion of data centers across the state. The group, which includes Iowa businesses, economic alliances such as the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, and unions like the Iowa State Building and Construction Trades Council, aims to attract substantial data center investments while mitigating negative impacts.
Dan Culhane, President and CEO of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, stated that the initiative seeks to bring tens of billions of dollars and foster long-term economic growth, secure property taxes, and create thousands of jobs statewide. The coalition's formation comes amidst growing public debate, with residents raising concerns over potential noise, significant water usage, and escalating electricity prices associated with data center development.
To address these issues, "Growing Iowa's Economy" has outlined principles advocating that energy costs should not burden Iowa families and that residents should play a role in energy infrastructure decisions. The group also stresses the importance of minimizing local and environmental impacts, ensuring new developments align with Iowan values. Andy Roberts, President of the Iowa State Building and Construction Trades Council, underscored the critical role of data center job creation in tackling current affordability concerns for the state's workforce.