AI data center proposal in Raton draws opposition
A proposed AI data center by Atterix LLC in Raton, New Mexico, is facing significant community opposition due to concerns about water, energy use, and noise. The Raton City Commission is considering a moratorium on data center projects, but a vote was postponed for legal review related to an existing agreement with Atterix. Residents have organized to gather petitions and voice their concerns at city meetings.
A proposed artificial intelligence data center in Raton, New Mexico, spearheaded by Denver-based Atterix LLC, has sparked significant community backlash. Residents, organized under the group Protect Our Resources, are actively opposing the three-phase project, citing concerns over high water and energy consumption, potential noise pollution, and minimal economic benefits for the small town. The first phase would involve retrofitting a former Kmart store, with subsequent phases expanding to an abandoned power plant and undeveloped land, collectively requiring up to 35 megawatts of electricity.
The Raton City Commission initially approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Atterix in February for a feasibility study, which also prohibited the city from soliciting similar projects for six months. In response to public outcry, commissioners introduced a proposed data center moratorium; however, a vote on this measure was postponed due to city officials' concerns about violating the agreement with Atterix and incurring legal jeopardy. City Manager Neil Segotta and Mayor Lori Chatterley have stated that while no final commitments have been made, the city must consider such proposals given Raton's long-standing economic challenges.
Commissioner Sally Hoger, the sole vote against the Atterix deal, and Commissioner Linde Schuster have voiced strong skepticism regarding the project's benefits and environmental impact. They advocate for establishing strong regulatory ordinances to mitigate potential negative effects. The proposed moratorium is currently undergoing legal review, with its reconsideration possibly delayed until after the MOU with Atterix expires in August, giving the city time to develop necessary regulations. Opposition leaders like Pat Walsh and Dianne Fleming continue to gather signatures and raise awareness, fearing the project could risk the town's resources for little return.