Commission approves data center site plan in 10-minute meeting

The Trenton Planning Commission in Ohio granted swift approval to a site plan for the Prologis data center project during a brief ten-minute meeting on Monday. This expedited decision left some residents unsatisfied, particularly regarding their inability to ask questions during the meeting, as they were reportedly told to submit concerns via email. The project involves 141 acres at Kennel Road in Trenton, with initial work already underway for four massive 220,000 square-foot buildings featuring high-tech cooling. The city anticipates approximately $120,000 annually in revenue, and Prologis claims its design minimizes chemical use and covers power upgrade costs for the city. However, significant resident opposition persists, led by Brenda Blankenship, who heads a group of over 500 members. Concerns primarily revolve around air pollution from data centers and associated fossil fuel power plants, questioning the environmental impact of the development. Blankenship stated that despite the commission's vote, her group will continue to fight the project and closely monitor for any issues that arise, emphasizing the importance of clean air and a viable environment for residents.