[Letter] A mother’s perspective on the proposed South Annville Twp. data center

Sarah Dixon, a resident of South Annville and mother of three, has submitted a letter to LebTown expressing her profound concerns regarding a proposed data center by Inch & Co. within the township. Dixon highlights the need for "forward thinking" in evaluating the project's long-term impacts on the community, particularly the health and well-being of future generations. She points out that the proposed site abuts the Quittie Creek, a drinking water tributary, is close to an apartment complex and playground, and is less than a mile from an elementary school, leaving "zero margin for error" if pollutants (noise, air, water, land contaminants) prove consequential. Dixon criticizes Inch & Co. for not providing independent data to substantiate their claims that the data center will be safe and different from older facilities, or to explain the specific fire risks. She urges residents not to take the land developer's word at face value. She also brings up Inch & Co.'s controversial history, including a 2023 settlement with the Pennsylvania Attorney General's office for violating consumer protection laws by prohibiting tenants from posting negative reviews, and multiple instances of community backlash against their projects in York County. Additionally, she notes that Inch & Co. repeatedly sought tax abatements for a sports complex project in Central York School District after breaking ground, despite initial assurances, leading to legal action by a partner. Dixon warns that the promised tax revenue for schools might not materialize if Inch & Co. later seeks tax exemptions, as they have done in the past. She implores the South Annville Township Board of Supervisors to demand extensive research, seek resident opinions, value neighboring communities' experiences with the company, and include strict regulations in ordinances. She advocates for conservative action, prioritizing children's health over potential short-term tax benefits, especially when health and environmental impacts remain unknown.