Hilliard residents concerned about Amazon data center air pollution

Hilliard, Ohio residents packed a public meeting hosted by the Ohio EPA to express significant concerns about a proposed Amazon data center's air emissions permit. The permit, a Title V operating permit for a facility already constructed and operating along Scioto Darby Creek Road, would allow up to 158 emergency generators. Residents, including Cathy Cowan Becker and Trevor Anderson, questioned if the permit adequately protects air quality and community health, citing fears for their children's well-being due to proximity to a playground and the data center. Ohio EPA's Chief of Division of Air Pollution Control, Bob Hodanbosi, explained the facility's need for a Title V permit as a major source. Residents also raised doubts about Amazon's pollution projections and the lack of independent monitoring. Norwich Township Trustee Brian Rothenberg noted the unprecedented scale of such technology in a populated area. Concerns also surfaced about the potential frequent use of emergency generators beyond actual emergencies, referencing PJM, the electrical grid in Ohio. An Amazon spokesperson responded to NBC4, affirming a decade of operation in Ohio, supporting essential services, and reiterating commitment to meeting all environmental standards. The company stated its generators in Ohio typically run about 10 hours annually for testing and maintenance. The current meeting is one step in a multi-stage permitting process, with the Ohio EPA reviewing public comments before issuing a preliminary and then a final permit. Community members have until March 25 to submit further comments.