US communities weigh data center proposals in election measures

Election measures in multiple states put local data center development before voters as concerns about the facilities’ effects fuel opposition. One report emphasizes the wider ballot picture and specific Ohio debates; another focuses on opposition in 10 states and Ohio’s rapid growth.

• One report says voters in 13 states will decide on 41 data center-related ballot measures, many involving local approval or regulation.· 1 source
• The reports describe local opposition amid concerns about data centers; the longer account cites electricity, water, land, environmental effects and nearby quality of life.· 2 sources
• Ohio is a focus in both accounts: the longer report lists 21 measures across 18 jurisdictions, while the shorter account calls it one of the fastest-growing data center areas.· 2 sources