Monrovia Residents Protest Data Center Over Land and Water Fears

By Andi Anderson

Residents of Monrovia, Indiana, are speaking out against a proposed data center project that they believe threatens their land, water, and way of life. The protest took place outside the Morgan County Justice Complex in Martinsville and was led by resident Christopher Lamberson.

The development would turn 390 acres of former agricultural land into a five-building data center campus. Critics argue this change offers few benefits to the community while risking environmental damage. Protesters held signs reading “Farm corn, not data” and “Save our water” to highlight concerns.

Lamberson said Monrovia was chosen because it is a small, working-class town with limited resources to fight back. “We’re going to have the people stand up for ourselves, for our natural resources,” he said.

Residents worry about high water and energy usage, noise pollution, and the overall environmental impact. Data centers use large amounts of electricity and water to operate. Some fear the local water table could be affected, and energy bills could rise.

Since late 2024, the number of data centers in Indiana has nearly doubled. Several Monrovia landowners sold property to a company believed to be Google, though officials have not confirmed the buyer due to non-disclosure agreements.

The rezoning process, which started in January and was approved by county commissioners in February, has also drawn criticism. Monrovia resident Janice Bacon said the community was given just two weeks’ notice before a public meeting, where 350 people attended but were ignored.

A lawsuit filed by two residents claims the rezoning ignored the county’s comprehensive plan and threatens property values. The suit says the community was excluded from meaningful participation.

Despite opposition, the project continues, but residents promise more protests. “We’re not going to be squashed,” Lamberson said.

More demonstrations are planned to demand transparency and defend Monrovia’s natural resources.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave