Amherst Residents Oppose Proposed Data Center, Zoning Board Considers Variance
Amherst, Ohio residents are actively opposing a proposed 45-megawatt data center, citing concerns about noise, light, and environmental impact, including high energy consumption. The city zoning board of appeals is considering a use variance for Cervenka Development Partners, with a decision expected within 14 days, followed by further committee and city council approvals.
More than 150 residents of Amherst, Ohio, gathered outside City Hall to voice strong opposition to a proposed 45-megawatt data center. The facility is planned for the current Nordson Corporation manufacturing site.
Residents, including Nancy Schuster, Debi Balmert, Linda Valencic, and Natalie Kelly, expressed concerns about noise and light pollution, environmental impacts, and the data center's potential to consume more energy than the entire city. Many also worried about health effects and a decrease in property values for homes near the site.
Cervenka Development Partners presented their proposal for the "high-reliability digital infrastructure facility" to the city zoning board of appeals, seeking a "use variance." Due to capacity limitations, many residents were initially unable to enter City Hall, causing frustration. Attorney Gerald Phillips, representing 10 residents, argued this violated their due process rights.
Eventually, the board allowed residents to speak, and nearly all expressed opposition, with some emotionally pleading for denial. Law Director Anthony Pecora informed the board that denying the variance could lead to legal action, but approval would still require further committee meetings and city council consent. The zoning board has 14 days to render a decision, with additional meetings scheduled for August 6 and 26.