Emporia, Kansas, a community that cherishes its serene environment and close-knit society, is facing an imminent threat with the planned construction of a massive data center. This petition is personal to us. We do not want this intrusion into our lives that promises not only to disrupt the peace we hold dear but also threatens to trigger an environmental disaster.

The proposed data center is set to deplete our precious water reserves. Data centers require immense quantities of water for cooling purposes. In an already water-constrained world, this facility could drain our local water resources, affecting not just our community, but the environmental balance of Emporia as a whole.

Moreover, such a facility inherently ramps up the risk of heightened surveillance, infringing on the privacy that Emporia residents treasure. The introduction of a data center symbolizes more than just economic development; it represents a shift towards a future where surveillance may become an unavoidable part of our daily lives.

We urge city planners and stakeholders to reconsider this plan and explore alternatives that align with the city's values and protect its natural resources. Instead, let's invest in sustainable options that contribute to economic growth without jeopardizing our environment or compromising our privacy.

The residents of Emporia deserve a future that respects their rights and protects their environment. Help us express our deep concerns and say no to the data center that threatens to change the landscape of our beloved town.

Join us in this cause by signing this petition and protecting Emporia from this impending threat. Your support is crucial.