""These are mega-rich people who are not here to do charitable things. They don't love Joliet. I'm here because I love Joliet, and I don't want to see my utilities go up.""
"While many who stepped up to the microphone spoke in favor of the proposed data center, touting the economic and tax benefits it would provide, proponents were clearly in the minority."
"Across the U.S., nebulous worries over AI taking jobs and raising electricity rates have crystallized into a clear goal: stop data centers from being built."
"For tens of thousands of working Americans, planning commission meetings may seem like the only setting where they can meaningfully slow what appears to be an ominous wave."
The planning commission meeting in Joliet attracted hundreds of residents concerned about a proposed $20 billion AI data center on farmland. While some supported the economic benefits, most opposed it, fearing increased electricity rates and water shortages. Lifelong resident Isabel Gloria expressed distrust towards wealthy tech developers, emphasizing a love for Joliet. This local opposition reflects a broader national trend where communities resist the construction of data centers due to fears of job loss and resource depletion.
Read at Big Think
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