Hancock County residents speak out against data center

Residents in Hancock County, Kentucky, are voicing significant concerns regarding plans to establish a data and AI data center at the former Century Aluminum plant in Hallsville. The announcement was made last month by the Hancock County Fiscal Court. During a recent meeting, community members attended to ask questions about the project's future, expressing opposition to the development. Key concerns raised by residents include the potential for increased utility bills, the substantial electricity consumption of data centers, and the strain they could place on local water resources. One resident stated, "Data centers, I don't think belong in our county. The environmental impacts certainly just too great." Another added that the people of Kentucky do not want "another thing causing environmental stressors" to the state. Despite the backlash, officials stated that the company involved has been forthcoming with the council. However, they acknowledged a communication gap with the community. Officials also noted that the site is already zoned for heavy industrial use, meaning it did not require court approval for its current zoning.