Dear Editor:

One question on Wiscasset’s Nov. 3 ballot is easy: Do citizens want a six-month moratorium on AI data centers? Yes, of course!

The break-neck construction of hyperscale data centers nationwide has met bi-partisan pushback. These gigantic, noisy facilities drive up energy prices, pollute air and water, flood the night sky with light, and create few long-term jobs. They benefit rich tech moguls, the rest of us be damned.

Wiscasset has no ordinances to deal with AI data centers. We need–we deserve–time to learn about the pros and cons and prepare guidelines that would protect what’s important here. Someday, there may be AI data centers appropriate for small Maine towns. Now’s the time to talk with other communities wrestling with these beasts and find out how to defend ourselves if one comes knocking.

Wiscasset voters, let leaders know we are not willing to hand our town to Big Tech on a platter.

Anne Leslie

Wiscasset