NORTH VERSAILLES TOWNSHIP, PA - PETITION AGAINST DATA CENTERS

NOTE: I’m doing this petition preemptively so that we’re prepared in case we need to fight against any Data Centers being built in North Versailles.

Five years ago, I moved to a peaceful, dead-end street in North Versailles because I’m very sensitive to noise. My sense of security has been shaken. At a recent township meeting, it was discussed that there might be changes to the zoning regulations for a township property.  My guess is that they’re thinking of turning an area within half a mile of my home (an 180-acre area on Naser Road) from commercial to industrial.  The Commissioners were very evasive when questions were asked about the re-zoning and Data Center development. 

In my opinion, this change appears to be in preparation for potential Data Center development—a prospect that fills me with deep concern and fear. The property is being pushed as a build-to-suit project saying it’s for retail, mixed-use for a hotel, a new Sheetz and big box pads. And, isn’t it coincidental that the Sheetz deal “fell through?”  However, the listing explicitly highlights utility availability and existing permits, both of which are very desirable to Data Center developers. 

I’ve done a lot of research on this. We DO NOT want ANY Data Centers in our community. AI is a gateway for decades of widening wealth inequality in America, and data centers are its physical embodiment. Why the big hurry and secrecy in building these AI Data Centers without public input?  Well, with about 40% of the stock market’s value riding on a handful of tech companies in which our current US government administration is invested, it’s about making the already rich billionaires even richer (and more corrupt). They don’t care about our safety, well-being, health or the livelihoods they’re stealing from future generations. They are nothing but trouble. It’s all about money and control of every aspect of our lives. 

The loud, piercing noise NEVER stops; it’s 24/7. The severe drain on our electricity and water systems would lead to substantial increases in our utility costs. Studies have shown that the electromagnetic fields generated by these centers have severe, adverse effects on human health, contributing to ailments such as increased stress, sleep disturbances, etc. 

The diesel fuel used to power the generators’ engines emits significant amounts of nano-particulate matter, nitrous oxides, sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide which greatly increases air pollution and causes lung, breathing, heart issues and a host of other health issues.  A town in the United Kingdom where a Data Center was built had 67% of 30,000 children living within 200 meters (approximately 1/8 of a mile) develop Leukemia. That’s 20,100 kids. Coincidence? I think not. 

It’s crucial to preserve our quality of life, protect our property values, and ensure the safety, health and well-being of all residents. We cannot stand by while our community is potentially compromised.  We should prioritize residential peace and community well-being over industrial expansion. 

Please join me in voicing your concerns by signing this petition and demand a halt to any current prospective or future Data Center proposals before it's too late to preserve our way of life. Please help me avoid the horrendous future that awaits us if any Data Centers are built in our community.  

Sincerely,

Sharon O’Toole 

A Very Concerned Resident