Locals protest against proposed $1.7 billion data center in Lebanon County

Residents of South Annville Township in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania, gathered to protest a proposed $1.7 billion data center project slated for development along Route 422. The developer, Inch & Co., estimates the project will generate millions in revenue for the county. Protesters, including Michael Schroeder, voiced deep concerns about the data center's potential environmental impact, citing air and noise pollution, and its massive consumption of water and electricity. Early designs for the project indicate five warehouse-like buildings, each approximately 50 feet tall with additional rooftop equipment. Developer Joe Eisenhauer, speaking at a public meeting with the township, argued that the community would benefit from the project, anticipating minimal burden on local public services such as police and fire, and the Annville-Cleona School District. Projected annual tax revenues include over $3 million for the county, $13 million for the school district, and about $700,000 for the township. However, organizer Lora Warner and other demonstrators countered that the financial benefits do not outweigh the potential costs to community health and quality of life. They emphasized that residents are not interested in tax cuts if it compromises their children's well-being and urged the township board to heed the community's clear opposition to the project.