The contentious proposal for a $2 billion data center in Shelbyville, Indiana, has escalated into a significant political dispute, further intensified by recent remarks from Mayor Scott Furgeson. Captured on camera, Mayor Furgeson commented on the "No Data Center" signs displayed around the city, stating, "I’ve seen a lot of these all over town, but I only see them in shitty houses," and subsequently adding, "most of them are rentals."
The individual engaging with the mayor in the video promptly challenged his comments, asserting that the residents in question are "working class." Another voice interjected with a crucial reminder for any public official, emphasizing, "it doesn’t matter whether they’re rentals, they’re still human beings."
Shelbyville residents have expressed understandable dismay and offense at Mayor Furgeson’s dismissive characterization of his constituents. Alexas Williams, in an interview with local NBC affiliate WTHR, described the mayor’s statements as "kind of disrespectful" and "kind of hurtful."
While Mayor Furgeson has declined to offer further personal comments, a spokesperson from his office issued a statement acknowledging the situation. The statement conveyed, "The mayor regrets that his choice of words may have caused offense."
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