PORTLAND — Following a recent town meeting last week where residents overwhelmingly expressed opposition to a possible data center, County Legislator candidate Carla M. Rodriguez, of District 7 is calling for a pause and full review of a proposed data center development along the Lake Erie shoreline.

“After attending the recent town meeting and listening closely to the voices of our residents, one thing is clear — our community has serious concerns, and those concerns deserve to be heard, respected, and fully evaluated,” she said.

Residents raised serious concerns regarding environmental impact, water usage, increased energy demand, and the long-term effects on the community’s character and natural resources.

“This is not just about development, this is about protecting our shoreline, our environment, and the voices of the people who live here, the community has spoken clearly, and their concerns must be taken seriously, they are against having this project on our shoreline,” she said.

Rodriguez is urging local officials to ensure the project undergoes a full review under the State Environmental Quality Review Act, including a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement to assess potential risks to Lake Erie and surrounding areas.

“Any project of this scale must be evaluated with transparency and accountability. Rushing forward without proper review undermines public trust,” Rodriguez said.