Ricketts says communities should seek local benefits from data center
U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts has advised Nebraska communities to negotiate for local benefits from data center developments. He made these remarks during a federal legislative summit in Ashland, amidst increasing discussions about data centers and AI in the state.
U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska) has advised Nebraska communities to proactively negotiate for local benefits from data center developers. Speaking at the 17th annual federal legislative summit held at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland, Senator Ricketts emphasized the growing discussions surrounding data centers and artificial intelligence in the state.
The summit featured several key political and business leaders. Among those present were 3rd Congressional District Rep. Adrian Smith, 1st Congressional District Rep. Mike Flood, and Ross Perot Jr., Board Chair for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of Hillwood. Also in attendance were leaders from various state and local chambers of commerce, including Jason Ball of the Lincoln Chamber, Heath Mello of the Greater Omaha Chamber, and Joseph Young of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The Senator's remarks underscored a broader sentiment that localities should leverage data center interest to secure tangible contributions for their residents.