Jackson Township approves 1-year data center moratorium as residents push Grove City to act
Jackson Township trustees have unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on new data center development within unincorporated township land. This decision allows time to study zoning rules and infrastructure impacts. Meanwhile, residents plan to lobby Grove City Council for a similar moratorium, raising concerns about noise, water quality, and electricity costs associated with potential data center projects.
Jackson Township trustees in central Ohio have unanimously enacted a one-year moratorium on new data center development within unincorporated areas of the township. The decision, made at a packed public meeting, grants officials time to assess current zoning regulations, potential infrastructure demands, and safety impacts related to data centers. Residents expressed strong support for the moratorium, which they hope will provide them with a better position to influence future development.
Despite the township's action, residents voiced concerns that the moratorium may lack efficacy if land is annexed by neighboring Grove City, which would shift zoning authority. Grove City's attorney previously stated that data centers are not currently permitted under the city's existing zoning code, meaning any proposal would require additional approvals and public hearings.
Residents highlighted worries about noise, water quality, and increased electricity costs if a data center project were to proceed. They are now planning to attend Grove City Council's upcoming meeting, even though data centers are not on the official agenda, to advocate for Grove City to implement its own moratorium. Pleasant Township was also mentioned as having taken similar action. Libby Cathy reported for 10 TV News.