Proposed data center development moves closer to reality in Tri-State city
The city of Trenton, Ohio, approved a tax abatement for Prologis's proposed data center development in Butler County. This decision, involving a Community Reinvestment Area designation, has drawn criticism from a local resident who argues against the tax deal and has circulated a petition opposing data centers.
The city of Trenton, Ohio, has approved a tax abatement for a proposed data center development by tech company Prologis in Butler County. The site has been designated a Community Reinvestment Area (CRA), with the agreement granting a 75% property tax exemption for 15 years on each building Prologis constructs, in exchange for creating 120 jobs and contributing millions to the city and local schools.
Trenton resident Barry Blankenship expressed strong opposition to the deal, accusing city leaders of ignoring community concerns and criticizing the significant tax reduction the abatement represents. He argued that the foregone tax revenue could have been better utilized for the community and schools. Trenton Mayor Ryan Perry acknowledged that the city would receive more without the abatement but defended the practice, noting that such abatements are common for businesses in the city.
Blankenship is also spearheading a local petition against data centers, which is currently under review and is expected to appear on the November ballot. The data center proposal is further complicated by a potential annexation of 600 acres in Saint Clair and Madison townships by Trenton, a move that has surprised and concerned a Saint Clair Township trustee who fears the site could become a second data center.