Data centers are on the ballot in Trenton. Here’s what to know about Issue 17
Trenton voters will decide Issue 17, a proposed city charter amendment that would prohibit data centers with peak demand above 25 megawatts. The measure could affect an under-construction 250-megawatt Amazon data center and another proposed Amazon project, while supporters cite pollution, noise and utility costs and opponents warn of lost business opportunities.
Trenton voters will decide in November whether to approve Issue 17, a charter amendment banning construction of data centers with peak demand above 25 megawatts. The measure reached the ballot after the Ohio Supreme Court ruled that the city had to allow the vote. A 250-megawatt Amazon data center is under construction in Trenton’s industrial park, and another proposed project would require the city to annex 600 acres from Madison and St. Clair townships.
The effect on the existing project is disputed. The attorney who helped draft the amendment says the facility would be limited to 25 megawatts, while Trenton officials say it has existing permits and could proceed as planned. City leaders have questioned whether the ban is constitutional and could sue if it passes. Supporters cite pollution, noise and higher utility bills, while opponents say the measure would restrict business opportunities. If voters reject it, the city may revive the annexation effort and continue considering financial benefits tied to both projects.