As a resident deeply invested in the well-being of our vibrant community, I am concerned about the proposed data center being considered for development in Newport News. Our community is not just a collection of streets and buildings. It's a place where families have grown and thrived for generations. It's a place where the air is clean, the ecosystem is balanced, and neighbors take care of each other.

The introduction of a data center brings multiple concerns that could dramatically affect the city. A huge issue with data centers is their energy consumption. They require enormous amounts of electricity, which inevitably leads to increased pollution levels and strains on local infrastructure. Data centers are known to consume as much electricity as a small town of 50,000 people, leading to potential power outages and increased energy costs that the community would ultimately pay for.

The environmental impact cannot be dismissed. Data centers are infamous for their excessive freshwater consumption for cooling purposes. A large data center can consume 5 million gallons per DAY. The potential loss and contamination of our water supply puts both the environment and public health at risk. We must also consider the noise pollution, increased traffic, and the loss of green spaces.

It is crucial that we voice these concerns before any irreversible decisions are made. Our city's politicians must understand the consequences a data center brings with it. We need transparent discussions involving the entire community, the environmental impact assessments, and, most importantly, the opinion  of our community in this decision-making process.

We are requesting that our local government explores more sustainable alternatives, ensuring our community is preserved and remains a place where both man and nature coexist together. I urge you to join me in raising your voice about this matter, ensuring our community's well-being is the top priority.

Sign this petition to demand responsible deliberation and action from our city leaders regarding the potential data center, securing a thriving future for us and future generations.