Liberty Township Zoning Commission advances data center restrictions to trustees for final vote
The Liberty Township Zoning Commission in Ohio has approved a proposed zoning change that would grant township trustees the authority to approve or reject future data center projects on a case-by-case basis. This decision, driven by concerns over energy, water, and noise, now moves to the trustees for a final vote on July 7, with a project in neighboring Trenton serving as a cautionary example.
The Liberty Township Zoning Commission in Ohio has voted to advance a proposed zoning change that would give township trustees greater control over future data center developments. The commission's decision, prompted by concerns regarding energy consumption, water usage, and noise, means that data center projects would be required to undergo the township's planned unit development process, allowing trustees to make case-by-case approval decisions and impose specific conditions.
Liberty Township Trustee President Todd Minniear expressed that while the township seeks business, it must align with the community's largely residential character, making data center approvals a "long shot." The move comes as neighboring Trenton grapples with controversy surrounding "Project Mila," a 141-acre data center campus being developed by California-based Prologis. Despite construction having begun, residents like Barry Blankenship, who helped form the Woodsdale and Trenton Environmental Resistance (W.A.T.E.R.), are advocating for transparency and a halt to the project, citing lack of public input and adverse environmental impacts.
Prologis has defended Project Mila, highlighting its potential to create 140 jobs and generate $120,000 annually in utility revenue, alongside claims of a water-efficient cooling system. Data center concerns extend beyond Butler County, with Ohio lawmakers forming a committee to study industry growth and Governor Mike DeWine pausing tax incentives. Activists are also pushing for a statewide constitutional amendment to ban large-scale data centers. The proposed zoning measure in Liberty Township now awaits a public hearing and potential final decision by township trustees on July 7.