A proposed $2 billion data center has divided the small city of Shelbyville, Indiana, with residents voicing their concerns through 'No Data Center' signs. Mayor Scott Furgeson's comment that these signs are only visible in ‘shitty houses’ and mostly rentals has reignited tensions.
Local resident Alexas Williams described the mayor’s words as “kind of disrespectful” to a local NBC affiliate, WTHR. The mayor’s spokesperson issued a statement saying he regrets his choice of words, but this hasn’t calmed residents who feel dismissed.
The mayor's remark has sparked heated debate about class and community sentiment in small-town America. As the data center saga continues, it remains to be seen how Shelbyville will resolve these deeply felt divides.
