Franklin County Planning and Zoning Commission backs one data center, rejects another

The Franklin County Planning and Zoning Commission recently took action on two data center rezoning requests, following an 11-hour marathon meeting last month. The commission voted to recommend rezoning a parcel of land near Diamond Farms in Villa Ridge to allow for a data center. However, they did not recommend rezoning a different area near Crooked Creek in Pacific for another proposed data center.

Commission members shared their differing viewpoints during the meeting. Debbie Willett expressed opposition to the Diamond Farms site, noting it is primarily composed of homes and farmland. Conversely, Jim Grotch argued in favor, highlighting the property's extensive frontage on Highway 44 and existing commercial zoning on Old Highway 66. Residents living near the proposed Crooked Creek site in Pacific voiced significant concerns, citing potential noise pollution, excessive water usage that could impact private wells, and environmental harm to local wildlife.

Both recommendations from the Planning and Zoning Commission will now be forwarded to the Franklin County Commission for a final decision. The county commission typically meets on Tuesdays, but it remains uncertain when these specific rezoning matters will be placed on their agenda.