Clarksdale residents voice concerns over proposed data center and potential economic benefits

Clarksdale residents gathered Monday evening at the Civic Auditorium to discuss a proposed data center development. The meeting drew a large crowd eager to learn about the project, which supporters say could bring much-needed economic growth to the small Mississippi Delta town.

Many residents expressed optimism about the potential benefits. Business owner Bob Wright called the project a “godsend” that could help reverse Clarksdale’s economic decline. Officials, however, provided few details about the proposal, citing early stages of negotiations. They said there are no finalized agreements, and rezoning approval does not guarantee the project will proceed.

The Clarksdale Board of Commissioners is scheduled to consider a rezoning application for the 648-acre site next week. A city attorney, Tray Hairston, said approval of the rezoning does not mean the project will happen, emphasizing the preliminary nature of the negotiations.

Clarksdale, known for its contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and blues music, has faced economic challenges over the years. Its population has declined from about 20,000 in 2000 to roughly 14,000 today, with a poverty rate around 40%. The town’s tax base has diminished as residents left, impacting local services and infrastructure.

Supporters cited the potential for increased tax revenue. Jason Matthews, a retired educator, said a data center could generate millions of dollars annually, helping fund public schools and improve facilities. In nearby Clinton, a similar project is projected to bring at least $5 million in taxes yearly.

Some residents voiced concerns about environmental and health impacts, including noise, water and energy consumption, and potential increases in utility rates. Patricia White, a retired nurse and lifelong resident, questioned why the site was chosen and expressed worries about its effects on health and local animals.

The city has not made any decisions and plans to address public questions before the board’s vote, scheduled for Monday, March 23. The project remains in the early planning stages, with at least five data centers currently under consideration across Mississippi.

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