Even if it were true, I don't understand how this argument makes sense: So assume the construction were entirely done by local businesses/hires. That gets a short-term employment boost while the facility is being built. And then what? The construction is finished, the employment dries up again, but the data center is still there, with all the downsides.

Also, you could get the exact same short-term boost by building something else, e.g. housing.

Offsetting long-term costs with short-term benefits doesn't seem like a good strategy.