The New York Times reports that Meta negotiated a secret deal with Louisiana officials and utilities to build an unusually large data center, using private talks and nondisclosure agreements to lock in unusually favorable terms. The project footprint is nearly six square miles, and a local elected official who participated in the talks sold 300 acres of his own land for the development. The secrecy extended to utility executives and the governor’s office, and local residents learned about the project only after deals were finalized. Associated Press reporting cited by commentators says Meta’s site sits on a flood plain and that the data center’s projected energy and water demands and pollution could rival those of some countries. State officials have promoted promises of thousands of jobs and that Meta will pay for its own energy infrastructure, claims critics in the reporting and sample commentary dispute. The Times examination highlights how closed-door bargaining secured terms that favor Meta while limiting public scrutiny and input.
