Defiance Voters to Decide on Data Center Power Limits

Voters in Defiance will decide on November 3 whether to amend the city charter to prohibit the construction of data centers that consume more than 25 megawatts of power. The proposal has drawn opposition from business leaders who argue that land-use regulations are better managed through zoning ordinances and the city's comprehensive plan rather than the city charter.

Michael Wahl, chief legal officer for Keller Logistics Group, urged a no vote on the amendment. He noted that the ongoing debate over the moratorium has already caused some companies to withdraw their interest in the area, according to Defiance County Economic Development.

On the same ballot, residents will consider two measures for the Defiance Public Library. These include a 0.75-mill operating levy and a separate 0.9-mill increase to fund a 14,375-square-foot annex on Fort Street. Library board trustee Jenny Derringer advocated for the expansion to accommodate increasing program participation among children and teens.