Franklin County residents, officials react after commission votes to move data center forward

The Franklin County Planning and Zoning Commission recently voted in favor of rezoning 575 acres known as Diamond Farms in Villa Ridge, paving the way for a massive data center project. This decision has met with significant disappointment and frustration from local residents, including Berta Carpenter and Mark Baxa, who live near the proposed site. Residents have expressed their determination to continue fighting the development, asserting that "the real work begins" now and urging the public to express their views to the county's leadership. The final approval for the data center projects now rests with Franklin County's three commissioners. Presiding Commissioner Dave Schatz, one of the three who will cast a deciding vote, indicated that he will weigh all options, including public input, and consider potential benefits such as job creation, investment, and tax generation for the county. The commissioners have the authority to overrule the Planning and Zoning Commission's recommendation. Neighbors remain resolute in their opposition, stating they "haven't given up" and are exploring all available options to halt the project. The Franklin County Commissioners are expected to schedule another public hearing to deliberate on the data center proposal.