The other way to debate data centers

Let’s say this about the political upwelling of Americans who oppose mega data centers in mainly rural areas: Not only are the protests bipartisan, but they also provide insight into how communities can tap their inclusive ties to shape a common economic destiny – perhaps even better than free markets or government policy.A cohesive community has intangibles like trust and caring that are often stronger than ideology or money in creating jobs and housing in an eco-friendly way.But don’t look to the anti-data center movement as the latest or best example of the importance of local bonds.Something similar has burst upon the scene this year that is much more conflict-free and uplifting.Since July, people in low-income rural communities across the United States have come up with local plans to attract multibillion investments. The big incentive? Last year, Congress added rural areas to the Opportunity Zone program. That federal project gives hefty tax breaks spanning 10 years for private investments in “distressed” communities. The program is now the country’s largest place-based incentive for economic development.About 15% of Americans live in distressed areas. Yet the initial program that began in 2017 focused on urban areas, with more than $150 billion invested since then. Two months ago, the window opened wide for states to apply for rural areas to be designated as an Opportunity Zone – that is, if the area has a poverty rate of at least 20%, among other requirements.Rural leaders will probably follow the urban practice of ensuring community input – as required by Congress – before allowing tax-delaying investments by wealthy financial backers. In fact, such a process of consultation might help improve the debate on data centers. “The tech companies would be wise to take a page from financial institutions and work with communities, not against them,” said Jesse Van Tol, head of the National Community Reinvestment Coalition.The investment zones only work with a combination of patient capital and the warmth of ties within a local community. In any business venture, qualities like inclusion and patience are essential. They create a clearing for progress, otherwise known as opportunity.