Van Wert leaders hold public hearing on potential $10B data center

The Van Wert City Council in Ohio recently held a public hearing regarding a proposed $10 billion data center development by Thor Equities. The project, located on a nearly 1500-acre mega-site between US30 and Marsh Road, has been under discussion for over a year, with a final decision on its approval or denial expected as early as next week. The community response at the hearing was divided. Many residents expressed enthusiasm for the significant economic development and job creation the project could bring to a community the size of Van Wert. However, others voiced substantial concerns about the potential environmental impact, increased noise and light pollution, and water usage, despite assurances that no water would be drawn from municipal supplies and utility bills would not increase. To address these concerns, the city council plans to launch a website, similar to one developed for Google in Fort Wayne, which will provide detailed information vetted by developers and regulators. Council President Thaad Iikinberry affirmed that extensive due diligence has been performed, including visits to other data center sites, to ensure an informed vote. The council will consider all public feedback before making its final decision.