Lackawanna County Commissioners Discuss Data Center Health Impact Study
Lackawanna County residents and commissioners discussed a $165,000 proposal to study the health impacts of proposed data centers and power plants, including the controversial Wildcat Ridge project. While Commissioner Gaughan urged immediate action with a specific firm, Commissioners Cermak and Welby sought other options, leading to an adjourned meeting with no action taken on the matter. Residents expressed frustrations, and a public vote is still being pushed.
The Lackawanna County Board of Commissioners met to discuss a $165,000 proposal for a health impact study on proposed data centers and power plants in the area. A key point of contention during public comment was the controversial Wildcat Ridge project in Archibald Township, with residents expressing frustration over the potential health impacts and the need for immediate assessment.
Commissioner Bill Gaughan, an outspoken critic of proposed data centers, emphasized the urgency of the study and advocated for the proposal from Doctor Michael Caulk and Empower Analytics Group. He urged his fellow commissioners to act swiftly, echoing the sentiments of many residents present.
However, Commissioners Chris Cermak and Tom Welby expressed concerns about rushing the process and suggested that other firms besides Empower Analytics Group should be considered. They questioned whether other companies with experience in such studies across the country might offer better alternatives.
The meeting ended without action as frustrations from residents escalated, leading to the adjournment of the session. Commissioner Gaughan indicated he would continue to push for a public vote on the matter in future meetings.