Cognetti, Bresnahan address data centers and how to approach concerns

Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti and U.S. House candidate Rob Bresnahan are engaging in a public discussion regarding the approach to data center development within Pennsylvania's 8th Congressional District, particularly in Lackawanna County. Cognetti, also the Democratic nominee for the district, emphasized that if companies establish operations in the area, local residents should reap substantial benefits. She advocates for data centers to be built on brownfield sites rather than land suitable for housing or parks and insists on projects utilizing local union labor, paying for their own infrastructure, and operating with full transparency. Last week, Scranton City Council introduced proposed amendments to the city's zoning ordinance, aiming to clearly define data centers, implement stringent regulations, and establish a "Technology and Energy Overlay" district. While no data center development is currently sought within Scranton city limits, Cognetti noted the presence of "dozens of data center proposals across Lackawanna County." Her administration's proactive measures seek to put the city in a strong regulatory position. Chris Pack, spokesperson for Bresnahan's campaign, countered Cognetti's stance, asserting that Bresnahan, the Republican incumbent, has consistently advocated for data center decisions to be made by local elected officials, with a requirement for local labor utilization. This position has garnered support from union organizations such as LIUNA and IBEW. Both candidates acknowledge the fast pace of technological advancement but stress the importance of ensuring community benefits and addressing concerns about water usage, utility bills, and overall quality of life.