Big tech, residents clash over data centers
Residents in Lowell, Massachusetts, are actively opposing a Markley Group data center, citing concerns over water usage, air, and noise pollution. Multiple lawsuits have been filed against Markley and the state's environmental protection agency, while the city council has enacted a moratorium on future data center development. Governor Maura Healey has also implemented a hold on tax exemptions for data centers until stronger protections are in place.
Lowell, Massachusetts, has become a focal point for rising anxiety over the impact of data centers on communities, particularly concerning water usage, utility costs, and noise and air pollution. The Markley Lowell data center is at the center of this controversy, facing significant pushback from local residents.
In April, a coalition of ten Lowell residents initiated a lawsuit in Middlesex Superior Court against both the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and Markley Group LLC. This 94-page filing challenges MassDEP's decision to authorize Markley's operation of 27 industrial diesel backup generators and 16 cooling towers in a residential area, criticizing the process as a "flawed air quality plan." MassDEP maintains its rigorous review process for Markley's air permit application. Additionally, two other residents are pursuing a class-action lawsuit against Markley, alleging property damage due to excessive noise from the 352,000-square-foot facility.
Amidst this local dispute, the political landscape around data centers is evolving. The Lowell City Council has enacted a moratorium, halting future data center growth, though it does not impact existing or already proposed facilities. On a statewide level, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has introduced a data center framework and agreed to maintain a hold on applications for 20-year sales- and use-tax exemptions for data centers. This pause will remain until robust protections are established for residents against higher utility bills and environmental impacts, with the Governor emphasizing accountability for data centers seeking to operate in the state.
Markley Lowell has responded to the criticism by launching a website, "Keeping Lowell in the Loop," which argues the company has positively impacted the neighborhood and the city through strategic investments. The website disputes resident claims regarding water use, noise, and air quality. While Markley's president, Jeff Markley, previously sued the city over the moratorium's application to its recent property acquisitions, both parties have since agreed to dismiss that particular lawsuit by joint stipulation. Despite this, residents signal their intent to continue their fight through the ballot box.