Signature process begins to ban large data centers in Ohio

Sponsors of a proposed constitutional amendment in Ohio aimed at banning new large data centers, defined as those using over 25 megawatts of electricity, have successfully navigated a key regulatory step. The Ohio Ballot Board confirmed that the proposal adheres to state law by containing only a single constitutional amendment, clearing the way for a signature collection effort. The grassroots campaign, spearheaded by Andrew Gula, a resident of Batavia, Ohio, must now gather more than 400,000 signatures from registered voters across at least 44 of the state’s 88 counties within 90 days to place the question on the November ballot. Gula, who became involved after researching data centers and attending a Mount Oran village council meeting where a data center was proposed, expressed concerns about electricity consumption, environmental impact, and a lack of transparency from local officials, who cited non-disclosure agreements with the unnamed developer. While proponents emphasize job creation and tax revenue, Gula’s campaign is focused on empowering Ohioans to decide on the future of large-scale data center development, anticipating a 10-20% rejection rate for collected signatures.