Amazon Data Center Plan Sparks Annexation Fight
An Amazon data center plan in Trenton, Ohio, is facing significant opposition from Saint Clair and Madison Townships due to a proposed annexation of land. Both townships have formally objected to the annexation, with Saint Clair Township having also enacted a 12-month moratorium on data centers. The Butler County Commissioners are expected to review the case, with traffic concerns being a potential factor.
The city of Trenton, Ohio, is involved in a protracted dispute with Saint Clair and Madison Townships over its efforts to annex land for a proposed Amazon data center. Residents and township leaders attended a meeting where Saint Clair Township trustees unanimously voted to object to the annexation, a decision made the day after Madison Township cast a similar vote.
According to Trustee Dustin Gadd, Trenton’s annexation plan was not initially communicated to township leaders through formal channels, and Amazon Web Services has reportedly offered $5 million to both Saint Clair and Madison Townships to withdraw their objections. Gadd emphasized Saint Clair Township's preference for developers to work through their existing zoning department if they wish to build within the township's jurisdiction.
Butler County Prosecutor Mike Moser was present at the meeting and indicated that the Butler County Commissioners would review the case regardless of the township's decision. Moser also noted that the county engineer might suggest halting the annexation plan due to traffic concerns raised by both townships. Residents expressed a desire for more consideration, explanation, and planning regarding the development's impact on the entire population.
In related developments, Saint Clair Township had previously enacted a 12-month moratorium on data centers, which remains in effect. Trustee Gadd is now working to develop specific language for the zoning commission to regulate data centers, as the township currently lacks such provisions.