Data center developer meets with McDonald residents to discuss proposed project
Oppidan presented plans for a data center at the former McDonald Steel site, but local residents expressed strong dissatisfaction with the proposal. Concerns include safety, quality of life, environmental cleanup, and a perceived lack of specific answers from the developer, leading residents to call for a 12-month moratorium.
Oppidan, a Minnesota-based data center developer, faced strong community opposition during a presentation regarding its proposed project at the former McDonald Steel site in McDonald, Ohio. Residents, including Joseph Guarino and Elizabeth Johnson, expressed dissatisfaction, calling the presentation "a dog and pony show" and criticizing Oppidan for not addressing specific concerns about health, environmental impact, and quality of life for the village.
Oppidan's proposal includes 9 to 12 data centers, 2 to 4 administrative buildings, and the creation of 250 full-time jobs over five years. Senior Vice President of Development, Drew Johnson, stated that a private deal to purchase the site is contingent on resolving issues related to zoning, power, and environmental cleanup, including asbestos and heavy metals.
Despite the developer's assurances of adhering to local, county, and federal rules, residents like Cara Pecchia are urging the McDonald Council to provide an honest assessment of potential risks. Citizens are actively calling for an emergency 12-month moratorium on data center development, which they hope will be enacted at an upcoming special meeting.