Pataskala and Granville voters approve bans on large data centers
Voters in Pataskala and Granville overwhelmingly approved ballot amendments banning data centers that use more than 25 megawatts of power per month. The results remain unofficial pending certification by the Licking County Board of Elections, with organizers citing concerns about water and electricity consumption.
Voters in Pataskala and the village of Granville, Ohio, backed local amendments banning data centers with monthly power use above 25 megawatts. The measures received 74% support in Pataskala and 82% in Granville in the November election, although the results remain unofficial until certified by the Licking County Board of Elections.
Citizen organizers led the ballot efforts after raising concerns about data center electricity and water demands and dissatisfaction with the role of local officials in considering such facilities. Granville organizer Tracee Laing said she hoped the results would encourage similar action elsewhere in Ohio, including potential votes in Heath and Johnstown.