Protesters voice opposition to Meta data center in Piqua
Piqua residents protested Meta's planned data center and organized a special election to recall three city commissioners over how the project was approved. City officials support residents' right to protest and tout the project's projected investment, jobs, tax revenue and $8 million pledge for emergency services.
Residents protested Meta's planned data center in Piqua, Ohio, after the Piqua City Commission approved the project. Opponents gathered enough signatures to trigger a Nov. 3 special election seeking the recall of three commissioners, including the mayor, over the city's handling of the development.
The city said it supports peaceful demonstrations and emphasized safety during the protest. Piqua officials described the project as a major economic opportunity, citing roughly $1 billion in fixed-asset investment, about $80 million for utility infrastructure, more than 1,000 construction jobs and 100 permanent positions. The city also highlighted Meta's $8 million commitment to emergency-services equipment and personnel.