Missoula, Mont. — More than 50 people gathered at the Missoula Public Library to speak out against a potential data center in Bonner.
The meeting was organized by Montanans Against Data Centers Action Team, or MADCAT, as part of a broader pushback against the growth of data centers. The group said people from different backgrounds had come together around the issue.
“This is not a partisan issue. This is simply a people issue because everyone needs clean water and clean air, and they need a peaceful place to raise their children. And everyone is looking for economic security and security in their communities. So, we are all like, this is the kind of thing that is getting us offline and off our phones and talking to one another, talking to our neighbors,” said Colette Berg.
NonStop Local has reported on the Bonner data center since it was first proposed in March and had tracked similar projects across Montana, including the proposed massive Quantica facility in Broadview.
Organizer Nathan Stephens said opposition had continued to build as more projects emerged.
“Change is inevitable, but you know what’s not is the data center. Turnout continues to grow. The opposition continues to grow. We're gonna stop this thing.” said Nathan Stephens.
Berg said possible environmental effects remained a central concern for opponents. She said communities such as Bonner should come first as plans like this move forward.
“The development of technology, it's not a bad thing. Moving forward is not a bad thing, but people should have a voice, and that the development of technology and AI needs to suit the needs of both the planet and the people,” said Colette Berg.
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