Meeting About Proposed Data Center in Andover, NJ Turns Violent

A public meeting in Andover, New Jersey, concerning a proposed AI data center on a 97-acre open lot escalated into a physical altercation. Cell phone video captured a man kicking a door frame before being body-slammed to the ground by police while being escorted out of Thursday's town committee meeting after reportedly becoming belligerent during public comment. Mayor Tom Walsh defended the officers' actions, stating they showed great restraint. Residents in the region are voicing significant opposition, primarily citing fears of environmental impacts, particularly the data center's massive demands for water for cooling. They argue that this usage would divert fresh water away from residents and working families, potentially creating a statewide issue. The mayor, however, highlighted the potential economic benefits, projecting an annual revenue of $5 million from the data center, which he claims would boost property values and fund essential services, including schools. Despite the planning board not yet receiving a formal proposal for the development, the town committee has already passed two ordinances that are intended to pave the way for the data center's construction, making it a permitted use. Mayor Walsh stated that while these ordinances make it difficult for a land use board to deny the application, it is not a "done deal" and he remains open to changing course. Residents are emotionally invested in preserving their town's natural beauty.