Madison Township Objects to Trenton Annexation for Amazon Data Center

Madison Township trustees voted unanimously on August 24 to object to a petition by the City of Trenton to annex 243 acres of land. The land is intended for a hyperscale data center project by Amazon Web Services. This request is part of a larger 601-acre annexation effort that also includes 358 acres from St. Clair Township.

Trustee Jeff Willoughby led the objection, citing legal errors in land descriptions and the absence of formal agreements regarding road maintenance and stormwater runoff. Willoughby expressed concern that the move would create land islands, which he argued could make it difficult for the township to provide essential services. He also questioned the impact on residents regarding noise and visibility.

To secure the expedited Type 3 annexation, Amazon Web Services and Trenton offered both townships $5 million each along with a portion of property taxes. Madison Township leaders rejected the offer, claiming the city treated the annexation as a purely financial transaction. Finance Director Matthew Mesisklis noted that while early negotiations were collaborative, the parties reached sticking points over future annexation restrictions.

The objection moves the decision to the Butler County commissioners, who will hold a public hearing to determine if the petition is approved. St. Clair Township trustees are scheduled to meet on August 26 to decide whether they will also object to the annexation.