ASHVILLE — The Village of Ashville is facing a pivotal decision that could reshape the community’s future after EdgeConneX formally presented a sweeping development proposal tied to millions in funding for local schools, infrastructure, and public safety.
Village Council is considering Resolution 06-2026, which would approve a Development and Supply Agreement term summary between the village and the data center developer. The measure has been declared an emergency, meaning it would take effect immediately upon passage.
The Project
EdgeConneX plans to construct two data center buildings along with supporting infrastructure on approximately 195 acres within the village, currently identified as Pickaway County Parcel D1300350000100.
In addition, the company intends to seek approval from the Ohio Power Siting Board to build and operate a natural gas-powered, behind-the-meter energy facility to supply electricity directly to the campus.
The project would require multiple local and state approvals, including building permits and energy siting certification.
$102 Million in Community Support
At the center of negotiations is EdgeConneX’s offer of up to $102 million in financial support to the Village of Ashville, Harrison Township, and the Teays Valley Local School District.
Under the proposed terms:
$64 million would go to Teays Valley for capital improvements, contingent upon the school board’s support of the energy facility. Why this matters: For years, Teays Valley has been attempting to pass a levy to expand an already overcrowded school system.
Up to $3 million would be directed to the township fire department for training and equipment.
The village could receive up to $35 million placed in escrow for EPA-mandated infrastructure upgrades, including water, sewer, and road improvements. Why this matters, the village has come forward openly expressing issues with one of the oldest water treatment plants in the state, EPA is forcing the hand of officials to develop the treatment plant at a cost of over 32 million. In a meeting last month Ashville management said that this could cost citizens around 100 more per month on their water bills.
An additional $74 million could be available in future funding if the village later chooses to annex nearly 486 acres north of the proposed site and approve a Community Reinvestment Area (CRA) agreement. Just a few weeks ago, the village denied the annexation.
That future funding breakdown includes
$10 million to the township
Up to $32 million to Teays Valley
Up to $32 million combined for a new village water plant and wastewater treatment expansion
Importantly, annexation is not required under the current proposal, and the village would retain full discretion over that decision.
Infrastructure Commitments
The agreement outlines significant utility cooperation:
The company would extend a 12-inch water main to the property at its own expense.
The village would provide 50,000 gallons per day of water and wastewater capacity by May 31, 2027.
EdgeConneX would pay its proportional share of any future wastewater expansion tied to its needs.
The developer would also fund up to $100,000 for the village to hire professional advisors and cover legal and engineering review costs associated with the project.
Timeline Moving Quickly, EdgeConneX demands in a letter a structured and quick timeline, including passing this important ordinance on Monday, March 2, 2026, and suspending all other readings.
The proposed timeline is aggressive:
Council is expected to consider suspending the usual three readings to fast-track approval of the term sheet.
Negotiations on the full Development and Supply Agreement are slated to conclude by early May.
The Ohio Power Siting Board application could be submitted by the end of April.
A final OPSB decision is anticipated in October 2026.
Construction on the data center could begin as early as mid-May if permits are issued.
Moratorium Suspension
As part of the agreement, council would acknowledge that the village’s existing data center moratorium — enacted in December 2025 — does not apply to this project and would suspend it specifically for EdgeConneX’s development.
What Happens Next
Council must now determine whether to approve the term summary and continue negotiations toward a final Development and Supply Agreement.
Supporters argue the proposal could provide transformative funding for schools and long-term infrastructure upgrades without immediate annexation.
Critics are expected to raise questions about energy generation, environmental impacts, water usage, and the long-term implications of hosting a large-scale data center campus.
Public information meetings are anticipated later in March, with school board action expected before the end of the month.
The coming weeks will likely define whether Ashville moves forward with one of the largest private development proposals in the village’s history — a decision carrying significant financial opportunity and equally significant responsibility.
