With split vote, Middleton Township approves zoning change for acreage bordering data center

Middleton Township Trustees have approved a zoning change for 32 acres of land bordering Meta's data center, shifting the parcels from residential and agricultural to M-1 industrial zoning. The decision, made during a Tuesday evening meeting, was split, with Trustee Melissa Petrea voting against the change, citing the need to represent residents' interests over Meta's. Trustees Mike Moulton and Fred Vetter voted in favor.

Simultaneously, the Wood County Planning Commission recommended the rezoning of an additional 39 acres adjacent to the data center, also for construction parking. This request, submitted by A. Schaller Limited Partnership, will proceed to the township zoning board and then the trustees for a final decision. Meta's attorney, Chris Ingram, argued that the rezoning aligned with the comprehensive plan and would facilitate construction completion and create a buffer zone with trees.

Residents expressed significant opposition and distrust of Meta's operations. Beth Cole, a resident, criticized Meta for allegedly violating pledges and operating a concrete plant without proper zoning, calling the company a "terrible neighbor." Other residents, including Patricia Fugee and Tim Hainen, raised concerns about the M-1 zoning allowing undesirable uses and setting a dangerous precedent for future development, particularly if Meta expands south of Ohio 582. Leatra Harper and Joe DeMare urged government bodies to prioritize the welfare of Wood County residents over corporate interests.