Bowling Green rally targets Husted over data centers
Ohio Democrats and residents rallied in Bowling Green, criticizing Senator John Husted for data center developments they claim are causing rising electricity costs and environmental concerns. Residents from Middleton Township specifically raised issues with Meta's $800 million data center project, noting ongoing pile driving into bedrock.
Ohio Democrats held a rally in Bowling Green, Ohio, targeting Senator John Husted and accusing him of being responsible for data center developments in the state. Residents expressed strong disapproval, with one stating it's "time to be fired" for the perceived negative impact on Ohioans.
Beth Cole, a resident of Middleton Township, spoke about an $800 million Meta data center project near her home, claiming she has been left uninformed throughout the process. She highlighted that pile driving into bedrock, 37 feet down, was commencing as of the day of the rally.
Cole and Mark Windrowski, a candidate for Wood County auditor, voiced concerns over rising electricity costs, attributing a 14.2% year-over-year increase in Ohio as of May 2020 to data center expansion. They noted Ohio's increase was more than double the national average of 6.2%.
Speakers emphasized the need to hold large developments accountable for their impact on residents, particularly during an "affordability crisis" marked by stagnant wages and escalating utility bills.