Columbus City Council hearing spotlights debate over data center expansion

The Columbus City Council held a lengthy discussion on Wednesday night focused on the future of data centers in the city and surrounding region, as the industry continues its rapid expansion across central Ohio. City leaders said there are currently 18 data centers within Columbus and about 130 across the region, with an additional 70 to 90 projects proposed over the next several years. The growth has sparked debate in communities throughout the region, and neighbors packed the council meeting to voice their concerns, many saying they do not want the large-scale developments in their backyards. Council members heard testimony from residents and industry experts about how the city should move forward as demand for data infrastructure rises. Some speakers raised concerns about environmental impacts, particularly energy demand and water usage. Supporters of the projects pointed to economic development and job creation, with Christopher Magil of Vista Site Selections stating that each data center job in Franklin County leads to about 3.2 additional jobs. Council President Shannon Hardin said the city is trying to strike a balance between competing viewpoints, noting that some did not even want the council to have this conversation, while others are calling for an outright ban on data centers. The council did not make any decisions on Wednesday night, but said they will review the information presented before determining next steps.