10/01/2026
STATEMENT FROM JOSH JAMES- BEACON FALLS DATA CENTER “POLITICS” FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
On July 30th I made the decision, in the interest of my constituents, to bring information to light about an advertised AI Data Center in . Yesterday, I was made aware that the House GOP stepped in and released a statement from State Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria, in part saying she is a “hard no until” there are more answers.
Rep. Klarides-Ditria voted YES on HB6514, the 2021 Data Center incentive law. Now, she says she wants the legislature to revisit the legislation, and is following my lead when it comes to calling for a pause. I appreciate her statements, and agreement, that this type of project poses risks to water, power, tax rates, environmental impacts, and road safety to name a few.
However, what further evidence could be needed for a firm no? Without any specifics, it begs the question of what changes does she now support, and what safeguards would she require? Does she support ending the incentives, or keeping them with conditions?
Over the last few months, I have attended town meetings, community talks, been in touch with non-profits, and even discussed the subject with elected officials throughout our government. Just this week I attended a public discussion put on by residents of Beacon Falls to share information and develop a plan. The gathering was attended by candidates running in town from both sides of the aisle, and my opponent was absent.
Now is not the time to put pride over effective public representation, and it is not the time to drag your feet on an issue to see which way the wind blows before addressing residents’ concerns.
On another note - This issue was used to perpetuate lies that I was spreading misinformation, attacking elected officials, and seeking notoriety. However, the term hostile used against me is not best fit to my campaign, nor has it ever been used to describe me as a person.
Douglas Bousquet, a Board of Education member, has repeatedly targeted me over this issue—on my personal social media pages, in public, on Town property, and through his own social network. In one incident outside Town Hall, he screamed from his truck to “Go back to Seymour, Nicole is going to kick your ass!”
I find this conduct irresponsible, disrespectful, and incompatible with the professionalism expected of an elected official entrusted with serving our students. His involvement in delivering signs for Rep. Klarides-Ditria makes this behavior particularly concerning. It also raises questions about whether his conduct is consistent with Region 16’s Board of Education ethics guidelines.
Rep. Klarides-Ditria’s decision to like comments that mock my age and resort to name-calling is equally troubling, as are the falsehoods being spread that the harassment is coming from Democrats. I am happy to continue dealing with the facts.
Residents deserve elected officials who engage respectfully with disagreement and set an example for the young people they serve. I will continue advocating for the countless residents on board for a stronger Valley back in motion - in an ethical and respectful way. We’ve got room over here for everyone.
Sincerely,
Josh James Beaupre | Candidate for State Representative
