A local advocacy group is organizing a peaceful protest in Maryville this Saturday to oppose a proposed AI data center over concerns regarding its environmental and community impacts.
MARYVILLE, MO — A local advocacy group is organizing a peaceful protest this weekend to oppose a proposed artificial intelligence data center in southern Nodaway County, part of a broader coordinated national effort against such facilities.
The organization, NodawaySaysNo, will host the protest on Saturday, June 13th, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the public sidewalk at the intersection of Walmart Drive and South Main Street in Maryville.
According to organizers, the event aligns with biweekly nationwide protests coordinated by the No Data Center Resource Center. Opponents cite research alleging that data centers strain and pollute natural resources, consume excessive amounts of energy, disrupt rural and municipal communities, and pose risks to humans, livestock, and wildlife.
"NodawaySaysNo.org consists of concerned citizens taking action against the proposed AI Data Center in southern Nodaway County," the group said in a statement.
Organizers are advising attendees to prepare for warm weather, bring water, and carry their own signs, though a limited number of signs will be available to borrow.
Following the protest, the group is urging residents to attend the monthly meeting of the Nodaway County Public Water Supply District No. 1 on Monday, June 15, at 7 p.m. The meeting will take place in the first-floor conference room of the Nodaway County Administration Center, located at 403 N. Market St. in Maryville.
Group representatives emphasized that the proposed data center could heavily impact the local water district and noted the meeting will offer an opportunity for the public to gather information.
NodawaySaysNo is also encouraging community members to voice their concerns at regular local government meetings. The Maryville City Council meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the Maryville Public Safety Meeting Room. The Nodaway County Commission meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8 a.m. in the Commissioner’s Office at the County Administrative Center.
Great Jobs KC Receives Over $3.8 Million Grant from Patterson Family Foundation to Expand Workforce Training into Rural MO
Maryville Public Safety - 06/26 to 07/08/26
Greater Maryville Chamber of Commerce Taking Annual Banquet Award Nominations