Scioto Township residents discuss zoning to prevent data center
Scioto Township residents are actively debating whether to pursue zoning or a land-use plan to prevent a prospective data center from locating in the Glade Valley. Community meetings have been held for public input, with residents expressing strong opposition to the data center due to environmental and quality-of-life concerns. The Township Trustees are considering the feedback before making a decision on proceeding with a zoning plan.
Scioto Township Trustees are grappling with a decision on implementing zoning to control or halt a potential data center development in the Glade Valley. A community meeting held on September 8 saw approximately 60-70 residents attend, with nine speakers predominantly advocating for zoning or a land-use plan to protect the rural character of the township.
Trustees President Terry Trisch stated that no immediate decision would be made, with further discussion planned for their September 15 meeting and another public forum before a final decision on zoning. While all three Trustees initially expressed opposition to zoning, Trisch clarified he was not against a zoning plan going to a public vote.
Residents expressed strong opposition to a data center, citing concerns about noise and light pollution, and threats to the Teays Valley Aquifer. Advocates like Chip Smalley and Megan Davis Coyan stressed zoning as a tool against "powerful and monied interests," while Jeff Fisher proposed a land-use plan as an alternative protective measure.