While the impacts of artificial intelligence and data center development are dominating federal policy discussions, data center growth is currently highly regionalized, centered around hubs in Northern Virginia, Phoenix, and Dallas-Fort Worth. At the same time, states and counties across the country are considering additional incentives to attract new data center development. Many of these decisions, such as permitting and siting, ultimately fall under local jurisdiction. While data center development can bring significant local benefits, including construction jobs and tax revenue, it can also negatively impact electricity reliability and affordability, water scarcity, and noise pollution. Often, local communities must navigate these complex tradeoffs with limited technical background; engaged STEM professionals can play a significant role in shaping these conversations where they live. This session will bring together experts in community engagement, environmental impact management, and data center development. It will explore how decisions about data center development take place at the local level and provide attendees with the tools to become informed participants in these decision-making processes.