Bigger data center at STAMP makes even less sense than first massive proposal

Editor:

The situation regarding a data center at the STAMP site in Genesee County has reached new levels of complexity. GCEDC claims that Stream Data Centers approached them to withdraw their plans for the large data center known as Project Double Reed in order to propose an even larger data center.

GCEDC then revoked the approvals for Double Reed, even though this was not necessary in order for Stream to submit a new application. Whether the revocation was a response to pending litigation is unknown, but the fact is that GCEDC did the right thing, and deserves credit for it.

A new, larger data center is madness. It makes even less sense than the original proposal, which itself was opposed by a large number of local citizens. Supporters of data centers, notably Stream itself, are claiming  billions in investments, well-paying jobs, and tax relief for local schools.

The truth is far more sobering:  1) not enough jobs, especially considering the gigantic tax breaks for Data Stream; 2) enormous strain on the supply of electricity, which will drive up everybody’s rates, and; 3) no net financial benefit for local schools.

Stream Data would be the big winner here, with (probable) access to unfathomably large amounts of low-cost hydroelectricity as well as roughly a half billion dollars in tax breaks.  We the people are the losers. The effect of this project would be a net transfer of wealth from ordinary people to trillion-dollar corporations.

Also consider the lands immediately surrounding the STAMP data center – protected lands such as the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge and the Tonawanda Seneca Nation. A huge industrial development right next to them poses obvious risks.

The wilderness has no voice – we must speak and defend it. The voices of the Tonawanda Seneca citizens are largely unheard. They seek to protect their nation for the sake of their children, grandchildren, and future generations. We need to hear their voices.

You have a voice. Make sure it’s heard. Tell Stream that we the people don’t want them! I urge you to contact your local elected officials and let them know how you feel. Thanks in advance for doing so.

Dave Giacherio

Kent