Clarence says no to data center projects

CLARENCE, N.Y. (WBEN)......Not that there is one in its economic development pipeline, but Clarence would likely shoot down any data center project - should one arise.

Clarence is like many municipalities both regionally and across the country that are not welcoming the development of a data center.

The issue continues to be an economic development talking point with the City of Buffalo later this month is expected to see its Common Council back a two-year moratorium on data center-anchored projects.

"These projects make more noise than the Buffalo airport," said Clarence Supervisor Pat Casilio.

In July, Gov. Kathy Hochul issued a one year statewide moratorium on data center projects.

Data center developments remain key discussion points in the Town of Tonawanda and City of Niagara Falls - among other municipalities.

Casilio said no developer has ever approached Clarence about a data center and there are none on its development log.

Casilio said there is a proper location for data centers - just not in his town.

The supervisor said rock quarries might make a good location because of environmental issues like noise and water useage.

In fact, environmental issues are key reasons why Casilio thinks data centers would be a bad fit for Clarence.

Chief among his concerns: noise, electrical and water useage.

""We don't have enough power to support one," Casilio said. "And, i do have concerns about the noise."

But, data center advocates say the buildings can produce large scale tax dollars to aid financially ailing communities.

The Data Center Coalition reports that in 2024, more than $200 billion in tax dollars were created by data centers.

"We don't have financial issues," Casilio said. "But, I can see where, financially, a data center may make sense in some cities."

For now, Clarence has no plans to even consider data centers, Casilio said.

"It takes a special place to develop a data center and Clarence isn't that place," Casilio said.