To the Editor: Why we should be opposing the development of large-scale data centers in the 9th Bristol District

To the Editor,

The rapid expansion of large-scale data centers across the United States presents significant concerns for communities such as Dartmouth, New Bedford, and the broader 9th Bristol District. While some would  argue these facilities support technological growth and generate tax revenue, which in the current challenging fiscal times may be appealing for communities like ours, the long-term environmental, infrastructure, and community impacts  far outweigh the very limited local benefits they provide.

Data centers are massive industrial facilities that house thousands of computer servers responsible for cloud computing, A.I., internet storage, and digital communications. These facilities operate around the clock and consume massive amounts of electricity and water to power and cool their systems. In many cases, a single large data center can consume as much electricity as tens of thousands of homes. In Dartmouth, we already have significant challenges with overuse of water and with the potential for 100’s of additional 40B housing being built, it will not get any better. Clean water is not an infinite resource!

For communities already facing infrastructure challenges, the addition of a data center would place severe strain on local electrical grids, water systems, and municipal resources. Our Fire Departments would potentially not have the resources to handle an large scale issue in one of these, given current budget constraints, staffing, etc.   The 9th Bristol District is already grappling with critical wastewater and water infrastructure needs, particularly in Dartmouth. Diverting substantial water and energy resources to support private technology infrastructure risks placing additional burdens on the taxpayers and ratepayers while offering limited direct community benefit.

Environmental concerns are equally significant. Data centers contribute to increased greenhouse gas emissions through huge energy demands and reliance on backup diesel generators. They generate continuous noise from cooling systems and industrial equipment and often require large-scale land clearing that threatens open space, farmland, and environmentally sensitive areas. For our communities that value coastal preservation, farmland protection, and responsible growth, these developments are inconsistent with long-term sustainability goals.

Economically, the promises surrounding data centers are often overpromised and under delivered. While construction creates temporary jobs, these facilities typically employ very few permanent workers once operational. Many developers also seek substantial tax incentives and utility accommodation, meaning communities may absorb environmental and infrastructure costs without receiving proportional economic return.

The South Coast should prioritize economic development that creates meaningful long-term employment, strengthens local businesses, preserves environmental resources, and improves quality of life for residents. Industrial-scale data centers do not align with those priorities.

As representatives and community leaders consider the future of the 9th Bristol District, it is essential to advocate for responsible development that protects local resources, preserves community character, and ensures that growth benefits residents  not just large multinational technology corporations.

Edward Pacheco

Dartmouth, MA