Commissioners suspend American StructurePoint work on Park 1332 entrance project

The Delaware County Redevelopment Commission convened on July 10, 2025, to discuss ongoing projects and financial matters, with significant attention given to the suspension of engineering work and public concerns regarding data centers.

During the meeting, the commission addressed the ongoing work with American StructurePoint, a firm contracted for park entrance and design plans. A motion was made and unanimously approved to suspend their work until further notice, reflecting concerns about the expenditure of engineering funds without clear benefits. The commission plans to reach out to the firm for all relevant documentation regarding the project.

Public participation highlighted pressing issues, particularly from local author Rick Hanson, who raised questions about the necessity of government-funded trails in industrial areas, suggesting that such projects may not serve the community effectively. He also expressed concerns about the proliferation of data centers in the region, specifically mentioning a Chinese data center operated by BitTribe, which he claimed consumes significant water resources. Hanson urged the commission to consider the implications of these developments on local land and water resources, referencing actions taken by other counties, such as a moratorium on data centers in Jay County.

The meeting underscored the commission's ongoing financial management and the need for transparency in project expenditures, while also reflecting community apprehensions about the environmental impact of emerging technologies in Delaware County. The commission is expected to continue discussions on these topics in future meetings, as they navigate the balance between development and community needs.