Local community voices concerns over environmental impacts of data centers

Residents in Perry Township, Ohio, convened at a Perry Township Zoning Board meeting to address proposed modifications to local zoning codes concerning data center construction. More than 100 individuals from western Montgomery County attended, expressing significant concerns that data center developments could negatively impact crucial local farmland and water resources, particularly given the high daily water usage of these facilities. Kelli Bear, a Perry Township resident, articulated the community's apprehension, questioning the long-term environmental footprint and the necessity of such developments. She highlighted concerns about the local water table, emphasizing the potential for significant water depletion by 2028. Bear noted a shift in her perspective after learning that the board intended to implement stricter zoning regulations, indicating a shared vision between residents and officials. John Yancik, the commission chair, explained that the updated code would establish specific designations for large buildings and industrial parks, explicitly including data centers, to ensure more stringent oversight of their siting. Resident Harley Mafnas conveyed relief regarding the collaborative approach, stating, "we need to protect each other, not just for ourselves, but for our future generations." The township confirmed that further changes to the code would be made within the next month.