The Roy Howard Community Journalism Center’s “What Is True?” team investigated claims that Mississippi lawmakers blocked the construction of an AI data center outside the state Capitol.
RESULTS: The claim is misleading.
A legal battle between Jackson residents and developers with Saxum Investment Company prompted the city to temporarily halt construction of a new data center. Concerns center on the facility’s potential impact on city infrastructure and surrounding communities. To learn more about this issue, read the full fact-check below:
Data centers in other parts of the United States sparked similar protests from residents concerned about possible harmful effects. These concerns are compounded in Jackson, where residents have struggled with aging water infrastructure.
The World Resources Institute reported the top five concerns with AI data centers include:
— Increased energy costs due to high demand.
— Strains on local water systems due to cooling needs.
— Air pollution from diesel-fueled backup generators.
— Harmful noise levels.
—The need for large plots of land.
Organizations such as the NAACP worry centers built near marginalized communities will further compound climate and economic issues affecting those already at risk.
In April, Council President Brian Grizzell sought a six-month moratorium on data center construction to examine potential impacts on the city’s infrastructure. The moratorium specifically outlined goals to protect the city’s water, sewer and electrical systems while also preventing disproportionate environmental burdens. Council members tabled the moratorium after the city attorney advised that it would constitute a zoning ordinance and require a public hearing before a vote. As of June 18, the council had not set a date to discuss the moratorium further.
As for the rezoning hearing, the Jackson Planning Board was originally scheduled to consider Saxum’s rezoning proposal May 27. However, developers requested a delay to allow new zoning regulations to take effect before the hearing. The new hearing is scheduled for June 24.
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves has made AI investment a higher priority for the state. Over the past two years, lawmakers have announced at least seven major data center projects across the state.
About “What Is True?”
The RHCJC “What Is True?” team of graduate investigators examines everything from viral online posts to local community rumors. If you have a question, submit it through the “What Is True?” inquiry form on the RHCJC website or call 855-IS-IT-TRU (855-474-8878).
