As the debate over data centers and power plants in Lackawanna County intensifies, officials are pushing for an in-depth examination of potential health impacts. Commissioner Bill Gaughan is at the forefront, advocating for a thorough health impact study.
“I think we owe that to the people of Lackawanna County,” Gaughan stated. He is proposing the county spend $165,000 to hire Michael Cork, Ph.D., a post-doctoral research fellow from Harvard University and CEO of Empower Analytics Group, to assess the cumulative air quality and public health impacts. Cork has previously conducted a study for the Stop Archbald Data Centers group.
The urgency comes as Lackawanna County, particularly Archbald, has become a hotspot for data center proposals, with 15 campuses and multiple associated power plants planned. Gaughan emphasizes the importance of leadership in public health matters.
Beyond the county, similar proposals are emerging in nearby regions such as Clinton Twp., the Poconos, Luzerne County, and Northcentral Pa.
Gaughan aims for the study to resonate beyond local boundaries, hoping to engage state and federal officials, including Gov. Josh Shapiro, on the potential risks.
Commissioner Thom Welby supports the initiative, recognizing its value for both the county and state, but suggests financial contributions from municipalities and the state.
Commissioner Chris Chermak’s stance remains unknown as he did not respond to requests for comment.
Scope of the Study
Previously, Cork’s analysis for the Stop Archbald Data Centers group indicated that the 588 diesel-fuel backup generators planned for the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus could incur health damages estimated between $3 and $124 million annually. The study found that emissions could lead to severe health issues, including death and respiratory diseases.
Cork’s proposed study for the entire county will build on this analysis and is expected to take 650 to 830 hours over three to four months. The study will:
- Compile an inventory of proposed data centers and power plants in Lackawanna County.
- Estimate air pollution from each facility.
- Model pollution dispersion across the region.
- Assess health impacts of the pollution.
- Identify populations most at risk.
Gaughan expressed concern over the county’s existing environmental burdens, including landfills and a large power plant, viewing the data centers as a further strain.
“I think we’re done taking everybody else’s trash and then just being a stomping ground for these big billionaire developers to come in and just plop these things next to neighborhoods,” Gaughan remarked.
Cost Concerns
Gaughan is eager to address funding for the study at an upcoming commissioners meeting, although it may not be on the agenda. He noted that $100,000 is available from a budget for capital asset profiling, with another $65,000 from unallocated funds.
Commissioner Welby, however, is wary of financial implications. “I don’t want to see another tax increase because we’re not responsible with funding,” he said, suggesting the possibility of replicating Cork’s prior study locally at no cost.
Gaughan remains resolute, emphasizing the need for swift action and leadership in addressing potential health risks.
