by Bob Spitzer, Stevensville
Lately, data centers have been appearing in the news almost as often as politicians, which means we should probably keep one hand on our wallets.
A data center is essentially an enormous building filled with computers. We need them for banking, medical records, communications, the internet and artificial intelligence. I am not against technology. At 83 years old, I have learned that opposing progress usually accomplishes about as much as standing in the Bitterroot River and ordering the water to turn around.
But progress ought to pay its own way.
These facilities can consume as much electricity as a small city, and some require tremendous amounts of water for cooling. Building them may require new power plants, transmission lines, substations and water infrastructure. Before Montana welcomes them with tax incentives and a freshly baked pie, somebody should tell us who will pay for all of that.
If a multibillion-dollar corporation needs the electricity, the corporation should finance the infrastructure. The cost should not quietly find its way onto the monthly bills of Montana families, farmers and small businesses.
Supporters also promise jobs—and construction certainly creates them. Electricians, equipment operators, concrete workers and other tradespeople may remain busy for several years. That is real employment and should not be dismissed.
However, once construction ends, most of those workers pack their tools and move to the next project. A building containing thousands of computers does not necessarily employ thousands of people. Computers neither take lunch breaks nor buy groceries downtown. Before granting special treatment, local officials should ask how many permanent, locally hired workers will remain after the ribbon-cutting photographs are taken.
Montanans deserve straightforward answers: How much electricity and water will the facility consume? How many permanent jobs will it create? What tax reductions will it receive? Who pays for the necessary infrastructure? And who is responsible if the project fails or closes?
This should not be a Republican or Democratic issue. It is simply good stewardship.
Data centers may become an important part of Montana’s future. If they bring genuine benefits while protecting our water, power supply and taxpayers, welcome them. But a corporation wealthy enough to build a giant warehouse full of computers is wealthy enough to pay its own electric and water bill.
Montanans should not be asked to pass the hat.
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