During a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to the proposed construction of a data center in Henry County, citing concerns over environmental impact, noise pollution, and property values. Residents expressed that the addition of the data center would not only fail to benefit local schools but could also exacerbate existing issues such as rising crime rates and declining property values.

Denise Simpson Carter, a local resident, highlighted the potential negative effects of the data center, including continuous noise from cooling systems and generators, which could disrupt daily life and lead to health problems. She referenced complaints from residents near similar facilities in Virginia, where noise was reported to be audible from miles away. Carter also raised concerns about the infrastructure's ability to handle the demands of the data center, warning that it could contribute to climate change and water shortages.

Samantha Carter, another resident, emphasized the agricultural nature of the surrounding area and the risks posed by chemical runoff from the data center, which could contaminate local water sources and affect livestock. She urged decision-makers to consider the long-term implications of such developments on food safety and local ecosystems.

Marjorie Brown, who has family living near existing data centers in Virginia, echoed these sentiments, describing the detrimental impact on property values and the community's quality of life. She argued that the promise of only 25 jobs from the data center was not worth the potential harm to the community, advocating instead for attracting businesses that would provide more substantial employment opportunities.

The meeting also raised questions about potential tax incentives for the data center, reflecting concerns about whether the county is prioritizing developer interests over community needs. As discussions continue, residents remain vigilant, urging local officials to reconsider the implications of such developments on their community's future.