By: Diane Benjamin
I did attend part of the data center meeting last night. I was told it was filmed and would be on the City website today, so far I don’t see it. The crowd was large, parking was ridiculous, and out-of-town agitators were present waiving red cards is they disagreed with anything a speaker said.
If the video ever appears, start watching about 1 hour in – that’s where they got to questions about power, water, and noise.
If you want to spend outrageous amounts of money on cancer cures China created because they embrace AI, oppose all data centers. Quantum computers are going to revolutionize life, your opinion won’t matter. No isn’t a strategy, planning is.
My opinions don’t matter, but here they are anyway:
- No building on rich farmland
- No building close to residential areas
- Site has to provide their own power and put the excess on the grid for free, small nuclear can easily do that
- Site must have large water retention pond(s) and utilize that water.
Data Centers keep evolving and becoming more efficient. Newer designs don’t use massive amounts of water.
Since I’m easily bored, I didn’t stay long. I opted to explore the changes downtown instead.
Remember back in 2017 when a couple aldermen wanted the brick streets in historic areas of Bloomington fixed? A 5-year brick street Master Plan was created. The repair costs then were $7,363,000. I don’t think repairs were ever done because the cost was high while most other streets were despicable from years of neglect. https://blnnews.com/2017/11/27/brick-streets-parking/
Downtown has brick on streets. I wonder how people living on historic brick streets that haven’t been fixed feel about downtown?
.Aren’t
Aren’t steps on a sidewalk tripping hazards? Maybe they are considered aesthetics.
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The seating area under the ring isn’t very big, I have no idea what the circles are there for. Isn’t it nice to see people trashing the new area already? Parking must be banned for events held under the ring to create more room.
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This block is close to finished:
Why is it that the No Data Centers crowd seems so much like the No Kings crowd?
That’s a good valid question!
Basically, the same sinister forces created these fake crowds.
The No Kings crowd or movement is — like the MAGA crowd or movement or the Black Lives crowd or movement or No Data Centers crowd or movement and other phony grassroot crowds or movements — a US regime-controlled operation to either control the opposition via such hope porn movements or divert them into establishment-safe outlets (such as gender/race wars) IN ORDER TO PREVENT A MASS REVOLUTION AGAINST the totally criminal ENTIRE US REGIME which is, AND ALWAYS HAS BEEN, run by PSYCHOPATHIC KINGS (not just Trump)!
The bogus ‘no kings’ movement wants you to think once Trump is gone everything’s alright AS IF IT’S ONLY A TRUMP ISSUE. Just like No Data Centers crowd wants you to think once data centers are gone everything’s alright. It’s the same child-like mentality and stupidity of millions of people who “think” and hang on to the fake hope or fantasy that once their democrat/republican candidate is in office things will be fundamentally better again!
ANY criminal beta psychopath who has ALWAYS ended up and ends up in high office is merely always a lower-ranked willfully participating puppet or agent serving the true pack of alpha psychopaths behind the scenes. Removing the public-facing immoral criminals has never solved anything vital at all, and never will.
By FAR the most vital urgent and DEEP understanding everyone needs to gain is that a mafia network of manipulating PSYCHOPATHS (psychopathic KINGS) is, and always has been, governing big businesses and institutions (eg official medicine, big academia, big tech, big banks, big religions), governments and the world — the evidence is very solid in front of everyone’s “awake” nose: see “The 2 Married Pink Elephants In The Historical Room”… https://www.rolf-hefti.com/covid-19-coronavirus.html
“We’ll sit on the edge of our seats watching made-up tales about psychopathic killers while psychopathic killers rule the world.” — Caitlin Johnstone, Independent Journalist
“America is the greatest exporter of violence the world has ever known. So wear your patriotism on your sleeve and be proud. You are a depraved citizen of the world’s worst killer nation.” — Paul Craig Roberts, Ph.D., American economist & former US empire official, in 2015 [https://archive.ph/liVj5]
““No Kings” isn’t anti-war, it’s just anti-Trump.” — Unknown
Yet…
“I’ve come to realize that the biggest problem anywhere in the world is that people’s perceptions of reality are compulsively filtered through the screening mesh of WHAT THEY WANT, AND DO NOT WANT, TO BE TRUE.” — Travis Walton, Author
And psychopaths are typically NOT how Hollywood propaganda movies (or the Wikipedia/WebMD propaganda outlets) have showcased them. And therefore one better RE-learns what a psychopath REALLY is. One’ll then know why they exploit/harm everyone, why they want to control everyone and have been creating a new world order/global dictatorship, and many other formerly puzzling things will become very clear.
But global rulership by psychopaths is only ONE part of the equation that makes up the destructive human condition as the cited article above explains.
Without a proper understanding, and full acknowledgment, of the true WHOLE problem and reality, no real constructive LASTING change is possible for humanity.
And if anyone does NOT acknowledge, recognize, and face (either wittingly or unwittingly) the WHOLE truth THEY are helping to prevent this from happening. And so they are “part of the problem” and not part of the solution.
“If we have learned anything in the past six years, it is that vaccinologists, doctors, and the government in general do not have good intentions and never did. The clear intention of everyone concerned was and is to make as much dirty money as possible, letting any amount of collateral damage slide, including a genocide and mass poisoning [with Covid-19 jabs]. The fact [is] that Big Pharma just murdered millions of people, with the full support of government, media, and “science”. With Covid, everyone is part of the fraud, many of them paid off, so no one has any reason to expose it, and big reasons to bury it. Don’t believe anything these people tell you, ABOUT ANYTHING. It isn’t time for a civil war against your neighbors, it is time for a revolution against these hoaxers and thieves.” — Miles Mathis, American author, in 2025
“Ignorance is the root cause of all Evil. Since only Knowledge eradicates ignorance, it is our duty and moral obligation to educate ourselves, as well as the masses around us.” — Anonymous
Speaking of ignorance is evil, how can the masses get out of this whole mess (and create justice, freedom and peace for all)? First, EVERYONE needs to learn, and teach others, what TRUE morality is —99% of people don’t know what it is because (1) it’s NOT taught in the official indoctrination system, better know as the “education system,” and (2) it’s NOT the same as religious morality: https://odysee.com/@woeih:e/Mark-Passio-Government-Is-Slavery:a
Because if you don’t know what TRUE morality is you will not stop doing, unwittingly or wittingly, evil things…
“The solution is NOT to create something new (eg, new systems of organization, new technologies, etc). The solution is to STOP being complicit with evil. To STOP doing things that are not moral for a reward. To STOP being complicit with anything the control system tells us we must do.” — Mark Passio, Spiritual Teacher
“As financial access, employment, and administration become conditional on algorithmic systems, freedom does not disappear through overt coercion, but through participation that is scored, filtered, and managed.” — Mark Keenan, Dec 2025 [https://www.globalresearch.ca/ai-operating-system-digital-totalitarianism/5909796]
These out-of-town agitators need to go back where they came from and worry about their own town. I hear they’re even coming from Ellsworth!
I was offered a red card and turned it down. 😊
There is no direct proof (of course) but there is a lot of indirect evidence that these out-of-town agitators would have to go all the way back to China to “go back to where you came from”.
Neville Roy Singham is one of the strongest links between the CCP Anti-American/Socialist/Maoists to the No Kings (for sure) and possibly the No Data Centers crowd.
He is an American tech millionaire who lives in China and is described as sympathetic to the CCP. He has long identified with socialist and Maoist political traditions. The New York Times alleges Singham “coordinates closely with the Chinese government and state media” and funds groups that spread pro‑Beijing propaganda. He is under investigation for possibly being a part of a foreign influence operation in the U.S. https://factually.co/fact-checks/media/evidence-linking-neville-roy-singham-nonprofits-to-pro-china-messaging-networks-2f8365?utm_source=copilot.com
So if you carry a No Data Center sign or have one in your yard you may be indirectly planting the flag of the Chinese Communist Party. They would like nothing more than to have all data centers in America shut down tomorrow so that they can be the AI superpower of the future.
By the way – One of AI’s specialties is to advanced hacking into secure networks. DOJ blames China for string of hacks targeting federal agencies and hospitals – https://www.politico.com/news/2026/08/26/doj-fbi-china-hacks-01050956?utm_source=copilot.com
AI superpower. Hmm
There are US/China dev ops teams and shared platforms and have been for some time. Military or cybersecurity recruiting maybe making it sound alike a competition but reality is, app dev, AI and IT/systems are not like that. Perhaps a military backed message is pushing such buy even USPS and consulting orgs in Illinois use Dev teams in China.
Now there was some decouple from China IT strategy a few years back but not sure what that really did or why.
Always wonder who is cheating these race narratives.
Curious. Maybe time will tell.
I agree with all your common sense regulations of data centers. I would only add that they must have a closed loop water cooling system, which uses a fraction of the amount of water, and they only have to change out the water every 5 years or so.
And of course, any project should get exactly zero taxpayer corporate welfare subsidies. Our residential property taxes should definitely go down if a data center is build here.
Unfortunately this data center issue is one of those 80-20 against issues, so it is political suicide to appear to support them.
This is probably why that new 3rd candidate, Charles Brim, has declared himself for Kent Lee’s Bloomington ward 8 seat, explicitly on an anti-flock, anti-data center platform. Kent himself hasn’t declared his intention to run for re-election, and his public support for or against data centers will probably sink or swim his campaign.
A three way race probably helps Kent, since he has the name recognition and is the incumbent in a 20% turnout municipal election in the spring. Mark Adams and Charles will probably split the liberal vote, but so fiscal conservatives will need to get out and vote, and bring 10 friends with them!
I did attend the data center meeting last night and I also refused the red card!
One interesting piece of information shared was that the cooling water is also treated with chemicals to aid in cooling which begs the question how will these data centers dispose of this chemical laden water. I also left at the break but I did take away that appeared many problems discussed came down to we won’t know until it’s built.
Hasn’t ever advancement in history been like that? Americans are capable of solving whatever problems surface unless government decides they are the only arbiter of truth. Their track record is dismal.
Data centers main purpose is to watch everything that the peasants do. Including myself, every commentor here is a peasant. Wake up! As much as most every commentor here is concerned about government over reach including the editor I am amazed that you folks trust more data collection. Truly amazed and truly saddened.
That said, last I remember the city posted a moratorium on data centers. Note that they (and many cities around the country) went straight from moratoriums to meetings to regulate as if the moratorium hardly every existed. Like that of the old, it doesn’t matter what the people think, the representitive government ignores the will of the masses of people that they represent and cowers to the promised money no matter the cost to privacy and freedom. Welcome big brother. Welcome Minority Report. Welcome to the open air prison planet.
So much bullshit teased. Tesla discovered free energy. In the 70’s, 100 mpg water fueled automotive engine technology was discovered. Point is that many technologies exist today that would lessen the burden for every day people, us the peasants, but is held back as big business would not be able to take more of our money and keep us in line. So many promises and so many lies.
Cell phones already know everything about everybody
There is a Youtuber called the The Highway Man. In some of his video’s he has talked about how the newer vehicles are collecting data. He advised against connecting your phone to your vehicles info center and gave some other advise to stop the data collection. One video he mentioned some company was collecting data and sold it to vehicle insurance companies which ultimately ended up triggering higher insurance premiums.
Steve Lehto who does legal YT videos’s did one the other day about the massive alert that went out to millions of vehicle owners to park their vehicle outside due to a fire hazard. He mentions the newer vehicles when you turn the key off it is still active. He said he walks past his Ford Explorer and hears it actively doing things. I know my Ford F350 does about the same thing. It self unlocks when I grab the door handle with the phob in my pocket. It’s like it comes alive.
Remember that BN is not populated by the smartest people around nor are many plugged into the real world around them. However, they are worried about their local status and the petty world that is McLean County, IL. You don’t even have to be that worldly to have common sense, something in short supply there. Getting bedded down and being stoned or drunk 24/7 is concern one for most. It’s why the so-called leaders run amok and play word games to convince the locals to give them their way. It’s really pretty easy.
Yea we are all peasants to be monitored,kept in compliance and analyzed 😂. Tools in fact.
@retired activist – again data centers store data, that is all they do. Can you tell me your source for your statement? “Data centers main purpose is to watch everything that the peasants do.” If it is true then I am against data centers too.
If the local Elitist Clique wants a data center in McLean County they will get one whether the population likes them or not. At this point, I don’t know whether they will be good or not. That said, locals should take a trip to just outside Lebanon, Indiana and get an eyeful of Meta’s huge facility that is already moving dirt on SR 32 near I-69. Meta has made all sorts of promises to the community on infrastructure and permanent jobs. It will be interesting to see if they deliver. By and large, the centers do not employ alot of people but Lebanon is the exception since it will be a world headquarters in the words of Meta. Meta’s will employ more since it is a mega operation which is close to 13 buildings. Something BN leaders could never pull off nor would have the minute understanding of an operation that large. What the data centers will do as promised by the tech oligarchs, will store plenty of personal information to be used as they see fit. It’s all the familiar names we all should know and have not been shy about their future plans for the world which includes a tech oligarch world government. Enjoy your future.
How right you are!! Lebanon, IN is the county seat of Boone Co. and HAD BEEN a WONDERFUL farming area UNTIL…..the younger generation of generations-old farm families didn’t want to farm and sold MANY acres to META, LILLY’S PHARMA and some other businesses and made out like bandits!!! I’m very familiar with all of this. I was raised in the southwest part of Marion Co. (Indianapolis) & the far southeastern side of Hendricks Co. when it was mostly rural. Hendricks connects to Boone. Almost every county surrounding Marion has had MULTIPLE offers from ‘AI’ Data Center builders…most often from California, to swoop in to purchase farm land to build these often ugly monstrosities! Central Indiana like central Illinois IS loosing acres and acres of once highly productive farm land. I could go on and on, but will close with my first four words…”How right you are”!!
Yes cell phones know alot and if they know “everything” Diane, why do you hold steadfast in not releasing your sources? As a journalist, I believe that is important to you. Ironic however since cell phones know everything and data centers will know more of which you seam to be ok with. Bring on the cell phones, live in a glass house, and keeping your source identity a secret, lol, good luck.
As a teenager I just couldn’t wait to get out of the house and have my own place. Not that I didn’t love my parents because I did and I always have. But I wanted to do things with my life that they didn’t agree with. They “knew” better and wanted to protect me. Livng a different life than my loving parents thought were right for me, I made a good living, raised a good family, and have never been a burden on any need of outside support. That said, I don’t want some government overlord that has time and time again proven to be a parasite in my life, watching over my more and more of my business.
Get rid of whatever device you just used
@retired – Explain to me how data centers will do anything to spy on you. They do nothing more that store data. If someone wants to spy on you they don’t need a data center. They need hacking tools or poor security protection or ineffective laws.
By the way if we don’t develope AI (which is the purpose of data centers) we will not be able to protect our networks and devices from those that have. So in a sense by limiting data centers you are cutting off your nose to spite your face.
So give me more is your answer is what you are comfortable with? I am truly amazed at your take on this. So much of your site is dedicated to government transparency but you accept this Trojan horse. Your life, your choice.
Inevitable needs curbs, NO isn’t a strategy
Some that support this and know better might have invested in AI or had their investment managers invest in AI for them. Just a thought.
I invest elsewhere
MPeabody – I haven’t invested in AI. My support for AI is based on common knowledge about what it is capable of doing in the wrong hands. Are you saying we should cede AI to other countries that intend to do us harm. Because AI will facilitate their attacks on us.
It’s a general comment Ace and Acette directed at no one specific. People are investing in this. Don’t be so offended. And yes, everyone should be concerned how there personal information is being used and stored. You people would get eaten alive outside your BN and McLean County bubbles. I comment here sporadically only to share interesting information and mostly for entertainment because I know it riles up the locals who always talk but will never have the guts to make their lives better. Calm down.
Being against data centers is like saying guns cause violence. Violence comes from who wields the technology. If China wins the AI race, they won’t just have a bigger, better “gun” — they’ll have a strategic advantage they WILL use against America. Weakening our own infrastructure doesn’t make us safer; it just ensures we’re outgunned.
THE USA already has more than 3000 data centers. How many do we need?Flock cameras are already compromised and are reporting more than advertised. Comparing guns to data centers is a cheap shot, not even close. Everytown moms just thanked you. These huge foot print data centers are not necessary to keep up with China. China. Let’s be like China? Still amazed that Diane and other commenters on this site trust these top 0 .01% of the 1% government public private partnorships to continue to collect more and more date on it’s citizens. Not me and there is nothing you can say to convince me to give up any more on my freedom than I already have been forced to do.
Cell phones, computers, vehicles, smart meters, etc. Some of those items can be turned off, can be hidden, can be avoided and critical times. If it’s important, it can still be done.
Ah but alas, cheap shots will still be taken here as people like to talk, like to type. Thanks Diane for the one liners. It’s not the first time you’ve surprised me over the years. I remember when you supported Tari Renner when he first ran for mayor, lol. Signing off. I’m out. It’s a waste of my time. Cheers!
Glad to know you’re an expert
Hi retired activist – I agree there should be controls on the use of surveillance cameras. But they shouldn’t be eliminated and data centers shouldn’t be eliminated and AI shouldn’t be eliminated because a few bad actors have misused surveillance. They should and have been prosecuted.
“74% of Americans Agree Municipalities and Businesses Should Have the Ability to Activate or Deactivate Specific AI Features on Security Cameras Based on Their Needs
60% of Americans Support Video Cameras with AI in Public Places to Identify Potential Suspicious Behaviors Before They Occur
Nearly Half of U.S. Citizens Avoided a Political Activity Like Attending Local Public Meetings or Dropping Ballots at a Public Box Due to Safety Concerns in the Past Six Months
20% of U.S. Citizens Say They Would Feel “Very” or “Somewhat” Uncomfortable Voting in Person at a Local Polling Place Given the Political Climate”
https://www.lvt.com/press/where-ai-cameras-and-civil-liberties-collide-and-can-coexist?utm_source=copilot.com