Ohio Towns Vote to Ban Data Centers | Columbus News

Columbus News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 5, 2026 · 1m

Two Ohio towns are about to decide their future: Pataskala and Sunbury are voting this November on a ban against hyperscale data centers—massive, power-hungry facilities threatening their small-town character. Residents rallied with hundreds of signatures, arguing these operations bring noise, extreme electricity use, and water demands that clash with local life. One center could consume as much power as 100,000 homes. With the ballot looming, developers face uncertainty, while communities stand firm—choosing self-determination over corporate expansion in a growing battle between tech growth…