Concerns and Info Gathering Continue on Announced Chillicothe “Data Center”
Local concerns and opposition are growing in Chillicothe, Ohio, regarding a proposed $1.5 billion data center project by Aligned Data Centers and AMD at a former paper mill site. The Chillicothe Council is actively gathering information to formulate potential legislation in response to the development.
A proposed $1.5 billion high-performance computing campus, presumably a data center, by Aligned Data Centers and AMD at the former paper mill site in Chillicothe, Ohio, has sparked significant discussion and opposition. The original news release on July 2nd described the project as a strategic hub for artificial intelligence infrastructure and advanced computing.
Opposition quickly emerged, with a Change.org petition gaining traction. Additionally, "Conserve Ohio," a statewide initiative, is collecting signatures to amend the Ohio Constitution to limit the size of new data centers. Conversely, the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce announced its strong support, envisioning the former Pixelle site as a multi-use hub for high-skilled industries.
The development includes the "Chilpaco Innovation Campus" and the gifting of the former Mead Research building by U.S. Paper Mill, LLC owner John Todoroki to Greater Chillicothe & Ross County Development. This building is intended to become a regional technology training campus, partnering with universities and trade schools to prepare the local workforce for careers in advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.
Chillicothe Council member Kathy Dunn has been assigned to gather information for possible legislation regarding data centers, holding a committee meeting with the entire council. Industry insider Kyle Skaggs also spoke at a council session, raising concerns about data center operations and developer site acquisition practices.