3 Ways EDOs Can Combat NIMBYism

In the world of economic development projects, perception is reality. AI-driven data centers, advanced manufacturing facilities or renewable energy sites may all generate jobs and tax revenues, but they also face growing resistance from local communities.   

According to DCI and the Site Selectors Guild’s recent State of Site Selection 2025 report, reputation risk and community pushback are now among the top factors influencing site selection decisions. Consultants increasingly report that local opposition can derail otherwise competitive projects, making proactive engagement essential.  

Recent headlines illustrate the challenge. In Peculiar, Missouri, residents organized against a proposed AI data center, citing fears about water consumption and noise even though the developer had mitigation plans in place. In Elmdale, North Dakota, a massive AI data center project sparked backlash over its enormous energy demands and questions about whether local infrastructure could handle the strain. Across the U.S., projects worth billions have been delayed or canceled because of concerns about land use, power strain and perceived lack of local benefit.  

These examples underscore a critical truth: NIMBYism isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a real barrier to economic growth. So how can economic development organizations get ahead of these issues? Here are three actionable strategies: 

1. Use Community Sentiment Surveys to Spot Trouble Early 

It’s easy to assume that residents of a community will be excited about big projects that are guaranteed to bolster the local economy, right? Well, you know what they say about assuming things. Before a project goes public—and Facebook comments spiral out of control—EDOs should gauge local attitudes toward development. Surveys can reveal whether residents have concerns about environmental impact, resource use or neighborhood character, and you can address these concerns through messaging from the beginning.  

For instance, pushback to a data center can be anticipated and mitigated if early polling flags water usage as a top concern. Knowing this potential trigger ahead of time can allow economic developers, site selection consultants and executives to be prepared with accurate data on water usage, how challenges can be remediated and the unrealized benefits to the community.

2. Identify Misperceptions and the Biggest Barriers 

Opposition often stems from misinformation, such as exaggerated fears about noise, pollution or minimal job creation. Some residents believe data centers might drain local power grids without offering tangible benefits, even when developers plan infrastructure upgrades. Conducting focus groups or town hall meetings, can help uncover these misperceptions and provide an opportunity to clarify the facts. 

It might sound simple, but it’s important that EDOs frame benefits in simple, relatable terms. If a project will boost tax revenue for schools or create high-paying tech jobs, make that clear. Lose the big, fancy words meant to impress. Transparency builds trust and reduces fear. 

3. Develop a Targeted Messaging Strategy 

Once you know the top concerns, craft messaging that addresses them head-on. Shape a narrative that resonates with your community and is more than just a list of facts. Consider these approaches: 

• Publish environmental impact data and mitigation plans. If water usage or energy strain is a concern, make sure residents see the steps being taken to minimize impact. Again, transparency builds trust. 

• Highlight community benefits like infrastructure upgrades or workforce training. Many projects bring long-term improvements beyond jobs, such as better roads, broadband access or new career pathways. Position these benefits front and center. 

• Share success stories from similar projects in other regions. Showing how other communities have embraced similar developments can reduce fear and create a sense of possibility. 

Think of this as a grassroots campaign: activate supporters, engage local leaders and communicate consistently across channels. The goal is to turn skepticism into informed dialogue, not just during the announcement phase, but throughout the project lifecycle. 

NIMBYism isn’t going away, but with proactive steps, EDOs can reduce friction and keep projects moving. If your region is facing opposition or you want to build a communications strategy before it arises, DCI can help. Our team specializes in turning complex projects into compelling stories that communities can rally behind.   

Contact DCI Partner Susan Brake at Susan.Brake@old.aboutdci.com to see how we can help your community get ahead of NIMBYism.