Perry County power plant and data-center planning concerns

Newport has issued 15 data-center permits, and three gas-fueled power plants remain in preliminary development, prompting concerns about transparency, environmental effects, infrastructure, and potential taxpayer liability if a facility closes. Statewide debate over gas-well setbacks, including a proposed increase from 500 feet to roughly one kilometer, adds regulatory context but no new local decision; Carroll Township continues scrutinizing a proposed power plant and possible ordinance changes.