Jones calls for halt to data center construction
Democratic candidates Doug Jones and Phillip Ensler are advocating for a one-year moratorium on new data center construction across Alabama, citing concerns over transparency and infrastructure for projects like "Project Red Clay" in Lowndes County. Alabama State Senator Robert Stewart also expressed opposition and announced plans to introduce legislation empowering counties to block data center developments and ban non-disclosure agreements.
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Doug Jones and Lieutenant Governor candidate Phillip Ensler visited Lowndes County, Alabama, to address citizens' concerns regarding data center developments, specifically the proposed "Project Red Clay."
Speaking at Beulah Baptist Church in Hope Hull, Jones criticized the lack of transparency in the state's handling of such projects, drawing parallels to the Burkville development. Both candidates called for an immediate halt to Project Red Clay and proposed a one-year statewide moratorium on new data center construction to prevent Alabama from becoming a "dumping ground."
Jones highlighted community concerns about infrastructure capacity, including water and electricity, and stressed the need for full disclosure and accountability from developers. He emphasized that financial benefits should not outweigh potential costs or community well-being.
Alabama Sen. Robert Stewart, representing District 23, also attended the meeting, confirming his opposition to the Lowndes County development. He announced his intention to sponsor legislation that would empower counties to zone and block data center projects, and to introduce legislation banning non-disclosure agreements in such dealings.