Clinton residents voice concerns on possible data center coming to town
Residents in Clinton, Iowa, packed City Hall to protest a proposed QTS data center, citing concerns about water, electricity, and health impacts. They requested a moratorium on data center development, which city leaders did not immediately enact but vowed to research further.
Residents in Clinton, Iowa, gathered at City Hall to express strong opposition to a proposed massive AI data center. The project, eyed by QTS Data Centers, is also being considered for Southwest Cedar Rapids.
Attendees demanded transparency from city officials and raised significant concerns about the potential strain on local resources, specifically water and electricity, as well as broader health impacts on the community. One resident voiced fears that the data center would "use up all of our resources and hiking up our bills."
Residents urged the city to implement a moratorium on data center development to allow for more research. While city leaders did not immediately impose a freeze, they committed to further investigation into the matter.
Not all views were negative; groups like Grow Clinton believe the data center would provide a strong financial path for the city, enabling other community projects like a sports complex or enhanced trail systems. The exact location is still undetermined, but city officials noted land 2,000 feet west of Brandon Hills is under consideration. QTS Data Centers released a statement highlighting Clinton's strong history, proud workforce, and deep sense of community, expressing their goal to be a long-term partner that supports local priorities and creates new opportunities.