A data center opponent was arrested after police said he threatened a local official An arrest in Dixon, Illinois, has brought public attention to a proposed 400-acre data center development opportunity. Harley Delander was charged with intimidation and stalking after allegedly threatening former state representative Tom Demmer, who heads a local business association aiming to attract a data center operator. This incident reflects a broader trend of community opposition to data center projects due to concerns about utility costs, water usage, environmental impact, and noise, contrasted with proponents’ arguments for economic development.

• Harley Delander was arrested in Dixon, Illinois, on felony charges of intimidation and stalking.
• The charges stem from alleged threats made against former state representative Tom Demmer, who is now involved in attracting data center development.
• Delander stated he was protesting against the proposed data center development and sent an email to Demmer with a veiled threat.
• The incident highlights growing tensions between communities and data center developers nationwide, especially in rural areas.
• Concerns raised by residents include rising utility bills, water usage, environmental impact, and noise.
• Data center development is increasing due to the AI boom, leading to significant backlash in various locations, including New Hampshire and Utah.
• An intelligence report noted ‘anti-tech violent extremist activity’ linked to the rise of AI technology and data centers. Continue reading https://www.businessinsider.com/dixon-illinois-data-center-development-critic-arrested-2026-5