Data center zoning approval draws backlash in Butler County, administrator offers answers

The Trenton Planning Commission in Butler County, Ohio, approved the zoning for what is expected to be the Tri-State's largest data center, a nearly 1-million-square-foot project by Prologis. The swift approval, occurring in under 10 minutes with no commissioner questions, sparked significant backlash from residents who have opposed the development for months. Residents, including Amy Humbert and Angie Markham, voiced frustration over feeling ignored and a perceived lack of transparency. They raised persistent concerns regarding potential health, environmental, water usage, and power demand impacts, specifically noting the absence of comprehensive health and environmental impact studies. Prologis plans to construct four buildings and a substation totaling 880,000 square feet on 145 acres purchased from the city, with initial groundwork already underway and the first building slated for construction by September. WKRC sought comments from city officials. Planning and Zoning Administrator Randy Bridge defended the process, attributing the quick approval to extensive prior review by city staff, which resulted in a comprehensive staff report. Bridge clarified that the city's review adheres to I-G General Industrial zoning district requirements and that broader environmental and public health matters fall under the jurisdiction of state and federal agencies like the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Butler County Health District. He confirmed that the city is not requiring separate health or environmental impact studies as part of the current review process.