Little Rock official admits some regret over handling of AI data center
A Little Rock city official expressed regret over the city's handling of a proposed AI data center, acknowledging not enough questions were asked initially. Residents raised concerns about the data center's impact on water usage and the environment. In response, the mayor has proposed an ordinance to regulate noise levels and require transparency on water and power usage for data centers.
Virgil Miller, a Little Rock City Director, expressed regret regarding the city board's initial handling of a proposed AI data center in the Little Rock area. During a meeting with the Coalition of Little Rock Neighborhoods, residents questioned Miller about potential environmental impacts, particularly concerning water usage, and whether the city could have prevented or slowed the project. Miller conceded that he and other board members "didn't ask enough questions."
Mayor Frank Scott Jr. had previously stated that state Law Act 851 of 2023 restricts local authorities from outright banning data centers. However, in light of ongoing concerns and the city's acknowledged lack of initial scrutiny, Mayor Scott Jr. has since proposed a new ordinance. This ordinance aims to mitigate community impacts by limiting noise levels for data centers and mandating transparency regarding their water and power consumption. The Google data center is still expected to proceed in the East Little Rock area.