Updated
Updated · The Verge · Jun 6
Shelbyville Mayor Ties $2 Billion Data Center Opposition to Renters in 'Shitty Houses'
Updated
Updated · The Verge · Jun 6

Shelbyville Mayor Ties $2 Billion Data Center Opposition to Renters in 'Shitty Houses'

1 articles · Updated · The Verge · Jun 6

Summary

  • Scott Furgeson was caught on camera saying Shelbyville residents displaying “No Data Center” signs lived in “shitty houses” and that “most of them are rentals,” intensifying a local fight over a proposed $2 billion project.
  • The remarks came during a public exchange in which one woman replied that the targeted residents were “working class,” while another said renters were “still human beings.”
  • Residents told local media the mayor’s comments were disrespectful and hurtful, turning opposition to the data center into a broader dispute over how city leaders view constituents.
  • Furgeson declined further comment, and his office said only that he regretted his choice of words “may have caused offense.”

Insights

Why are towns giving massive tax breaks to data centers that 70% of Americans don't want?
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