Recent report on STREAM Data Centers project draws support and criticism

This article details ongoing controversy surrounding STREAM U.S. Data Centers' proposed $19.46 billion project at the Science & Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP) in Genesee County, New York. A recent report by the non-profit Applied Economics Clinic, commissioned by the Tonawanda Seneca Nation and Sierra Club, criticizes STREAM's application for financial incentives, alleging the cost-benefit analysis is flawed and underestimates negative impacts such as property value decreases, tourism effects, utility bill increases, and public health concerns. The report also claims STREAM's job creation estimates are inflated and that proposed tax abatements are significantly greater than community benefits. The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) vehemently refutes the Applied Economics Clinic's report, calling its findings "significantly flawed" and "intentionally skew[ed]". The GCEDC maintains that the project will create 125 new jobs, 1,200 annual construction jobs, generate substantial tax revenue, and includes property value increases in the STAMP area. They accuse the report's authors of placating their clients by issuing findings without reviewing publicly available environmental studies. Opponents, including Tonawanda Seneca Nation Environmental Consultant Sarah Howard and local residents like Kelly Hollenbeck and RaeAnn Engler, emphasize widespread community opposition (over 2,500 written comments) due to fears of air and water pollution, noise, increased electricity rates, loss of rural life, and lack of transparency regarding the "multibillion tech company" client. They argue the project represents a "direct transfer of wealth" to private equity firms like Apollo Global Management and that the requested tax subsidies are excessive. A public hearing is scheduled at the Alabama Volunteer Fire Department, where opponents expect a large turnout.