Chris Kelly Opinion: Marty Flynn: ‘I only need one round’

Columnist Chris Kelly discusses the political landscape of data center development in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, particularly focusing on State Senator Marty Flynn's position ahead of the May 19 primary election. Flynn's challenger, Jeffrey Lake, has made his unequivocal opposition to data center development and support for a moratorium a central platform, aligning with majority public sentiment. Kelly highlights Flynn's controversial association with businessman Alpesh "Al" Patel, described as an "aspiring data center developer" who was involved in a land deal near a proposed data center. Flynn, however, denied direct involvement in Patel's data center aspirations. The article details Flynn's record, including his leadership in resisting a significant increase in water rates by Pennsylvania American Water, but criticizes his reluctance to take a stronger, proactive stance against "invasive data center development" impacting communities like Archbald. Flynn expressed support for bills aiming to set regulations and direct data centers to brownfields or coal mines, away from residential areas. However, he doubts the feasibility of a three-year statewide moratorium co-sponsored by other state senators due to the Republican-controlled Senate. He mentioned working on language for a one-year moratorium bill, acknowledging it would also be a hard sell. The piece underscores the political challenge of balancing economic interests with public protection against the perceived threats of data center expansion, with Kelly urging Flynn to take a more definitive stand for his constituents.