Company touts proposed data center for McDonald -

Oppidan, a Minnesota-based developer, is proposing a large-scale data center project at the former 360-acre McDonald Steel property in McDonald, Ohio. Senior Vice President of Development Drew Johnson outlined the plan for nine to twelve data center buildings, creating 250 full-time jobs with salaries ranging from $85,000 to $150,000, and generating $7.3 million annually in property taxes for the village. Johnson indicated a five-year, phased construction timeline if approved, and stated that Oppidan would be the developer and owner before an operator takes over. The company is currently conducting environmental checks for contaminants like asbestos and is finalizing a deal to purchase the site from current owners, Applied Partners.

The proposal has sparked significant local opposition, with over 190 residents attending a public meeting at McDonald High School to voice their concerns. Residents, some holding "No Data Center" signs, raised issues regarding emissions, noise pollution, health risks, and the overall environmental impact on their community. Cara Pecchia, owner of a nearby preschool, expressed concerns about the facility's proximity to children, while Lynn Brown worried about noise and air quality near the new football stadium. Joe Guarino specifically called for the village council to enact a moratorium to allow more time for studying the potential effects of data centers.

In response to public outcry, Mayor Ray Lewis facilitated the public discussion. The McDonald Village Council is scheduled to convene to consider emergency legislation, which may include a moratorium on data center development, highlighting the community's desire for a pause to assess the project's implications.