Ballot measures in several communities have seen voters overwhelmingly back local bans on data centers, despite many of these towns lacking existing facilities or immediate plans for development. The results suggest broad public skepticism toward large-scale technology infrastructure, even where direct economic or environmental impacts remain speculative. Environmental and community groups have long opposed such projects over concerns about energy use, traffic, and water consumption, while supporters argue they bring jobs and tax revenue. The outcomes highlight a growing divide between local opposition and industry-backed expansion efforts.
Voters resoundingly approved data center bans on Tuesday, often in towns where no centers exist or are planned.
