Mercer County residents oppose proposed data center at packed community meeting

Residents filled every seat and lined the walls at the Mercer County Fairgrounds Wednesday night to voice strong, unified opposition to a proposed data center. The gathering took place amid concerns over the project's compatibility with existing agricultural and residential uses. Caitlyn Cooper, who lives across the street from the proposed development, said a large industrial data center placed near her farm is fundamentally incompatible with the care, training, and safety that her performance horses and animals need. She said the proposed site sits on prime farmland surrounded by homes and farms that have been in families for generations. Cooper said she was proud of the community turnout despite uncertainty about the outcome. Curry Roberts, a consultant for the development, appeared virtually at the meeting and suggested the land could support digital infrastructure, potentially lower residential taxes and increase county revenue. Cooper said she thought it was unprofessional that he was not there in person to answer questions and that the slideshow was hard to follow without him being there. Residents raised additional concerns about wastewater and noise impacts from the proposed facility. James Dunn asked whether the developer would put in a wastewater system and pay for it. Dr. Rick Angel cited health concerns, saying there are complaints of increase of pain, perceived quality of life and worsening of regular medical conditions. Mercer County Judge-Executive Sarah Steele said in a statement that the county has not yet taken a position on the proposed data center. Cooper said the community is speaking for themselves and that elected officials are trying to protect the community.