Residents, officials clash over $19B data center proposal in Genesee County

Residents in Batavia, Genesee County, New York, held a rally to express strong concerns about a proposed $19 billion data center project slated for the town of Alabama. The development, planned for the Science Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP), is expected to occupy thousands of acres of land. Developers and officials, including the Genesee County Economic Development Center, are pushing for the 900,000 square foot data center, asserting it will bring new jobs and significant economic growth to Genesee County. Officials from Stream Data Centers emphasized that their goal is to demonstrate how the project blends innovative technology with a minimal environmental footprint and substantial economic benefits. However, residents, exemplified by Ran Angler, argue against the proposal, stating it will take away farmland and rights, create minimal jobs (estimated at 125) for a multi-billion dollar investment, and leave behind a mess. Major concerns include negative environmental impacts on a local wildlife refuge, increased noise, and higher utility bills, specifically mentioning water bills. Angler expressed a desire to stop the project, believing officials are not objective in weighing the pros and cons. A public hearing regarding the data center proposal is scheduled for Thursday.