Facing a proposed data center, a township in Jackson County moves forward with zoning
Scioto Township, Ohio, is moving to establish its first zoning code in response to a proposed data center development that has alarmed residents. A newly formed zoning commission faces a monumental task, with a potential ballot vote on the new code months away, making it uncertain if it can impact the current data center proposal. The local Amish community, typically disengaged from politics, is expected to support these efforts.
Scioto Township, Jackson County, Ohio, is initiating its first zoning code in direct response to an unpopular proposed data center development. The move comes after landowners received offers to sell to a data center developer, alarming residents in the largely agricultural township.
Trustee Aaron LeMaster highlighted the "monumental" task facing the newly formed seven-person zoning commission, acknowledging resident opposition to zoning in general. However, the data center proposal has shifted public sentiment, with many now hoping zoning can either regulate or prevent such developments. In Green Township, Scioto County, residents similarly petitioned officials for zoning in response to a Google data center proposal.
The process for enacting a zoning code in Ohio is lengthy, involving compiling a proposal, holding two public hearings with 30 days' notice, review by a planning commission, approval by the board of trustees, and finally, a township-wide vote. Fiscal Officer Judy Keifer stated that given these steps, it's unlikely the code could be ready for the November ballot, missing the August 5 deadline. Trustee Terry Trisch expressed skepticism that zoning would halt the current development, noting the "chances of it stopping is pretty slim" depending on the project's progress.
Despite the timeline challenges, the zoning commission, including chair Kasey Hall, aims to educate residents on the benefits of zoning, such as designating agricultural versus industrial land. The local Amish community, typically disengaged from politics, has also expressed concern and plans to support efforts to prevent the development, with their votes on issues like zoning potentially being critical. The commission is committed to engaging with all residents as they compile their proposal.