Data Center Developer Offers $10,000 for Support From Pennsylvania Community Residents

A data center developer in Hazle Township, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, has proposed offering $10,000 to residents who support their controversial "Project Hazelnut." This tactic emerged after the hyperscale data center proposal was rejected late last year by Hazle Township leadership, following significant pushback from neighbors who packed public meetings.

NBC10's Lena Tillett reported on this new approach, interviewing Annie Vinatieri, a local resident and outspoken critic of the project. Vinatieri expressed concerns about the environmental impact of another large industry in what was once coal country. She and other residents reacted with outrage to the developer's offer, with some calling it a "bribe" and feeling insulted or disrespected. Andrew Medici from American City Business Journals noted that developers are desperate for land with access to space, energy, and water, essential for AI-focused data centers.

Northpoint Development LLC, the company behind the project, sent letters to Hazleton residents in June, announcing a $165 million Community Benefit Initiative, including a $45 million Direct Resident Grant fund, translating to $10,000 per household. This payment is contingent on the issuance of the certificate of occupancy for the first data center building, expected in 2027. Despite the offer, critics doubt it will change minds, citing long-term concerns over short-term financial gain. Northpoint Development has not yet responded to inquiries regarding their plans to reapply or how the $10,000 figure was determined.