Student raises air-quality, noise and equity concerns about Align Data Center; commissioners urge forum

A Sandusky High School student told the Erie County Commissioners on April 29 that residents near the Align Data Center at Hayes and Perkins Avenue may face increased noise and air-quality impacts once the facility is operational.

Amiyah Johnson said she was concerned that the data center’s operations could affect surrounding neighborhoods and local schools, and she asked whether noise mitigation measures will be implemented and how regulators will monitor compliance. She also raised equity concerns because the facility is sited near an area identified in the transcript as one of the highest-poverty parts of Sandusky.

Commission President Shenigo thanked Johnson and said similar concerns have been raised by the Commissioners. He said recent state legislation permits townships to establish their own tax-increment financing (TIF) agreements without requiring input from county commissioners, and that Perkins Township used that authority in connection with the Align Data Center project. Shenigo said the County Commissioners were not consulted on the project and had not conducted a site visit; he encouraged Johnson to attend an upcoming Perkins Township Trustees meeting.

Dr. Richard Koonce, who attended representing Sandusky City Schools administration and serving as a Sandusky City commissioner, said the situation presents a strong opportunity for collaboration and suggested scheduling a public forum with local legislators to provide accurate information and address community questions. The Commissioners expressed willingness to participate in such a meeting.

The public comment concluded without further action at the April 29 session; the Board adjourned at 9:57 a.m.