Data centers can win public support. Here's how. | Opinion
An opinion article argues that data center developers can build public support by addressing both the benefits and community concerns associated with AI infrastructure. It recommends offering communities choices, proving public benefits, and assigning accountable officials to handle complaints and operating issues.
Carl McQueen, founder of McQueen Analytics in Grand Rapids, argues that opposition to AI data centers is driven less by the facilities themselves than by how developers engage with communities. Drawing on four surveys of more than 8,000 respondents, he says many people recognize both the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence and want meaningful choices about its use.
McQueen recommends that operators explain benefits and concerns together, provide verifiable community benefits, distinguish the interests of customers, neighbors and ratepayers, and identify a person with authority to address complaints. The article does not concern a specific data center project or government decision, but offers a broader strategy for improving public acceptance in Michigan communities.