Resident urges Pataskala to consider limits on data centers amid energy and land-use concerns
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Summary
During public comment, a Pataskala resident warned that large data centers could raise energy demand and local electric rates, cited nearby moratoria in other jurisdictions, and urged zoning caution and setbacks near key community crossroads.
A Pataskala resident told council on Tuesday that data-center development deserves local attention because of energy demand and community impacts.
Speaking during the public-comment portion of the meeting, the resident said several nearby townships and cities have enacted temporary moratoria on data-center approvals and urged Pataskala to study the implications before approving large facilities. The speaker cited recent local press accounts saying data centers have been linked to increases in electric bills in some communities and said land purchases by large firms have accelerated development pressure in Licking County.
"There’s nothing that says the data center has to pay for all of our energy," the speaker said, arguing that absent state action some costs could be passed to residents. The comment asked council and planning staff to consider setbacks, visual impacts along the Broad and Morse Road corridor, and whether the city should require clearer commitments from applicants about energy sourcing and costs.
Council did not take immediate action on the comment; staff noted planning and zoning review is the forum for such proposals and that the city will review applications as they appear.
