The rapid expansion of data centers worldwide, essential for powering AI infrastructure and cloud services, is raising community concerns over high water usage, energy demands, and environmental impact. While technology companies emphasize economic benefits, local residents often experience limited gains alongside significant resource strain. This situation exemplifies the challenge of securing a "social license to operate," a concept from extractive industries where legal approval is insufficient without community trust and acceptance. Obtaining and maintaining this informal but vital social approval depends on transparency, fairness, and balancing costs with local benefits.