Split decision on Franklin County data centers: One approved, the other rejected

On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, the Franklin County Planning and Zoning Commission convened a highly attended meeting at Union High School, where an estimated 850 members of the public gathered. Community sentiment was overwhelmingly against two proposed data center developments in Franklin County. Following deliberations, the commission rendered a split decision. One controversial data center campus proposal advanced, receiving a recommendation for approval. Concurrently, another proposed data center project faced a setback as the commission voted to recommend its opposition. Despite these recommendations, the ultimate fate of either project remains undecided, as the planning commission's moves do not seal the fate of either project.