Residents voice frustration over data center proposal
Maryland-based company Stonebridge is engaged in a legal dispute with North Beaver and Mahoning Townships in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, alleging the townships changed zoning regulations after the company applied to build 10-16 data centers. Residents voiced strong opposition at a public meeting, rejecting the company's arguments for job creation and electricity grid benefits. The legal battle and community engagement are ongoing, with future meetings planned.
A legal battle is currently unfolding in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, involving North Beaver and Mahoning Townships, where Maryland-based company Stonebridge is proposing to construct between 10 and 16 data centers. Stonebridge has filed a lawsuit against both townships, claiming that officials changed zoning regulations and introduced new restrictions after the company had already submitted its application to build in the area. Both townships are now seeking a judge to reject Stonebridge's arguments.
In an attempt to sway public opinion, Stonebridge held a community presentation in New Castle, Pennsylvania, highlighting the potential benefits of the data centers. A representative for Stonebridge emphasized that the project would create over 3,000 construction jobs and more than 400 permanent positions, with salaries ranging from $85,000 to $110,000 annually for roles like security and maintenance technicians. The company also stated that it would work with First Energy and cover the costs of new transmission lines, ensuring no additional burden on current First Energy customers.
Despite Stonebridge's presentation, residents of both Mahoning and North Beaver Townships expressed overwhelming opposition to the proposal. Many residents vocally rejected the idea of even a single data center, with one exclaiming, "We don't want it! You're not welcome here!" Residents were particularly frustrated that they were not allowed to ask questions directly to the presenter during the meeting, instead being directed to information tables.
The public opposition remains strong, and the legal dispute continues. Stonebridge has announced plans for additional community meetings in August and September to engage with different segments of the community.