Alliance City Council to discuss data center zoning restrictions on June 15

Alliance City Council plans to discuss legislation on June 15 that would amend the city's Planning and Zoning codes to limit data center locations within city limits. The proposal, first introduced on February 17, aims to regulate data centers to I-2, or heavy industrial, zones, according to Councilman Phillip Mastroianni, chairman of the Planning, Zoning and Housing Committee. Mastroianni noted that current zoning codes are vague regarding data centers and emphasized that no specific project or company is currently interested in building a data center in Alliance. The initiative comes amid broader discussions about data centers in Stark County and Ohio. Resident John Rasile has voiced strong opposition, citing concerns about excessive water and electricity consumption, and potential negative impacts on fishing and wildlife. He highlighted the economic importance of boating and fishing to the community. While Alliance considers its zoning amendments, other nearby areas have already taken action. A data center has been proposed for Perry Township, and Massillon recently reduced an 180-day data center moratorium to 60 days due to developer interest. Canton Township and Plain Township officials have also recently enacted 12-month moratoriums on data center construction.