Arkansas lawmaker, Little Rock neighborhood group talk data center concerns

Arkansas lawmaker, Little Rock neighborhood group talk data center concerns

News ClipThe Arkansas Democrat-Gazette·Little Rock, Pulaski County, AR·3/14/2026

An Arkansas state lawmaker expressed concerns about data center construction in the state, noting the need to account for public costs and residential concerns, even as recent laws have encouraged new tech infrastructure investment.

oppositiongovernment
Gov: Arkansas state Rep. Denise Ennett
Arkansas state Rep. Denise Ennett, a Democrat representing Little Rock, discussed concerns about data center construction in the state. While recent laws have encouraged new tech infrastructure investment, Ennett said data center projects must better account for public costs and residential impacts. The article does not mention any specific data center companies, but indicates there is an ongoing discussion between lawmakers and a Little Rock neighborhood group about balancing economic development with community impacts. Ennettt's comments suggest there are tensions around the growth of data centers in Arkansas, with a need to weigh the potential benefits of new tech investment against issues like public expenses and local opposition. The article portrays this as an emerging policy debate, without detailing any specific development plans or controversies.