DeWine wants local governments to be aggressive in data center negotiations
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine urged local governments to demand more concessions from data center developers to ensure compliance with health and environmental standards. However, a Brown County attorney representing data center opponents stated that trust between citizens and local governments is diminishing due to rapid project approvals. DeWine emphasized a balanced approach, advocating for aggressive local negotiations rather than outright bans on data center development.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine publicly encouraged local governments across the state to adopt a more aggressive stance in negotiations with data center developers. Speaking at the Ohio State Fair, DeWine highlighted that data centers were a top concern among fairgoers. He believes that while economically beneficial, data centers must adhere to health and environmental standards, and local officials possess the authority to enforce these through demanding concessions.
Contrasting this view, Austin Bow Richter, a Brown County attorney representing data center opponents, expressed concerns about the eroding trust between citizens and their local governments. Richter argued that the swift approval of data center projects has alienated constituents, making them feel excluded from the democratic process. He criticized the political narrative of always securing a "good deal" from developers, suggesting it overlooks the sentiment that many residents do not want these projects at all.
Despite advocating for tougher negotiations, Governor DeWine dismissed the idea of an outright ban on data center development, stating it would be detrimental to Ohio's economic future. He emphasized the importance of proceeding with data center projects "the right way," balancing economic growth with community and environmental considerations.