County planning commission recommends rezoning of 13 properties on edge of Meta data center

The Wood County Planning Commission has recommended, by a 6-2 vote, the rezoning of 13 parcels, totaling 32 acres, to M-1 industrial in Middleton Township, Ohio. These properties, already acquired and cleared by Meta for its data center project, were requested for rezoning by Liames LLC on behalf of Meta to ensure consistent zoning across its 550-acre development. Engineer James Sverchek, representing Liames, stated no permanent structures are planned for the rezoned land, which may be used for construction logistics or landscaping buffers.

Despite the recommendation, area residents voiced strong opposition and concerns about the data center's impact. John Zanfardino, a Bowling Green resident, urged officials to prioritize residents' quality of life, well water safety, and property values. Patricia Fugee, a neighbor to the Meta property, described her life as "grossly disrupted" and called for Meta to provide a clearer master plan. Another resident, Beth Cole, expressed anger over the project's traffic, noise, and the "obscene" need for more land for construction equipment.

Two planning commission members, Brendyn George and Matthew Tewers, voted against the rezoning, citing concerns over the loss of agricultural land and the expansion of industrial zones closer to residential areas. However, member LaHote argued that denying the request would not preserve farmland, as homes already occupied the parcels before being razed. Additional public comments criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the Apollo gas-fired power plant, which will power the data center and was fast-tracked by the Ohio Power Siting Board.

The rezoning request now moves to Middleton Township officials, including the township zoning commission and trustees, for a final decision. Opponents will have 30 days post-decision to petition for a public vote in the next general election.