Ohio farmlands targeted for data centers: Is Carroll County next?

Ohio is home to approximately 74,000 farms, and the farmers who work tirelessly every day play a crucial role in sustaining the agriculture industry, feeding families, boosting the economy and strengthening communities.

As of December 2025, Ohio has 217 data centers, ranking fifth in the United States, with a notable concentration in central Ohio. The increasing reliance on artificial intelligence necessitates the establishment of more data centers to store, process and analyze vast amounts of data, according to the Brookings Institution.

Farmland in Carroll County may be at risk. Data centers are large, industrial-style structures often proposed near residential areas or on farmland, which can lead to lower property values.

Ohio residents have raised concerns about data centers due to their high energy and water consumption, which can strain local infrastructure, increase utility costs and affect environmental resources. Additional concerns include noise, extensive land use for relatively few jobs and a lack of transparency regarding impacts on local communities.

I am not against change and improvements. However, it is time to say “no” when the cost of saying “yes” creates significant negative or long-term impacts.

Summit County, located two counties north of Carroll County, currently hosts seven data centers, and new facilities are emerging in Stark County. Is Carroll County next?

Think about that and get back with me.

Edward L. Hale

Carrollton