Ohio EPA to hold public hearing on Google's Franklin Furnace data center wetland permit

Residents of Franklin Furnace, a community along the Ohio River, are actively opposing a proposed $1 billion data center campus by Google. The project, estimated at 500,000 square feet, has generated significant local debate concerning its potential impact on wetlands, water quality, and increased traffic on rural roads. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's Division of Surface Water is scheduled to host a public information session and hearing at Green High School on Wednesday at 6 p.m. This session provides a crucial opportunity for locals to present oral and written testimony to state environmental regulators regarding an Isolated Wetland Level 3 permit application and an antidegradation analysis required for the project. While community groups and neighbors voice strong concerns, particularly about stormwater runoff into the Ohio River and changes to riverfront habitats, supporters highlight the economic benefits, including construction jobs and substantial annual payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) to fund local services. Scioto County commissioners have already approved a 75 percent property tax abatement over 15 years for Google, starting at $500,000 annually. Google has confirmed it is "considering a potential data center project in Scioto County."