OPELIKA– On Tuesday, concerned citizens expressed their worries about the potential establishment of a data center in Opelika. Residents have been raising questions about the risks associated with data centers for the past few months, particularly concerning health and environmental impacts.
One concerned resident stated, “I’m worried that the costs and risks of these data centers—though we don’t have any currently in the works—would outweigh the minimal local benefits. I also fear they could negatively impact my quality of life and that of my neighbors and family.”
Another resident questioned, “How could Opelika be any different from the thousands of other cities and counties that already have data centers and are managing their effects?”
A significant concern remains the potential increase in property values near the data centers, which could occur at the direct expense of neighboring property owners. Residents are also worried about water usage. The Chattahoochee River Basin alone has over a hundred data centers, not including those that are in the approval process.
“With water scarcity affecting areas from the Chattahoochee River to Lake Harding, the situation could become very costly. Regarding pollution, they’ve made promises in various locations across the country and have a history of breaking those promises. Data centers could pose a threat to our children and grandchildren’s health,” the resident continued.
“I love Opelika. I was born here at EAMC, I played recreational league soccer, and I was on the OST swim team. I truly cherish this community. We voted for you and placed our trust in you because we believe you will make decisions that better our beautiful city,” expressed Opelika resident Tessa Tallakson. “Data centers are a concern for all of us as they would impact nearly everyone. I want to raise children here and grow old here, and I hope they enjoy the same wonderful quality of life that I experienced as a child. I urge you to conduct thorough research and implement an action plan and protections for the city of Opelika.”
Resident and USAF Captain Physician Dustin Howard added, “A large data center can consume up to 5 million gallons of water per day, which is equivalent to the daily water usage of approximately 50,000 homes. Considering the environmental risks and housing impacts, I strongly encourage you to reject the establishment of data centers in our community.”
According to Opelika Mayor Eddie Smith, the city currently does not have sufficient information to support a moratorium on data centers at this time.
