Overview
- Village Council held the second reading Monday on an ordinance that would prohibit data centers in Lordstown.
- The measure was initially proposed as an emergency ban but was paused to allow council to gather more information.
- A third and final reading is scheduled for Nov. 3, keeping the proposal moving through the standard approval process.
- The draft includes carve-outs for SoftBank's planned AI manufacturing operation at the former GM plant, municipal or emergency data infrastructure, and server rooms under 500 square feet.
- Residents voiced concerns about noise, lighting, power and water use, and tax abatements, while economic development advocates warned a blanket ban could deter broader investment.