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Cleveland Rejects $1.6 B Data Center Permit Amid Moratorium

5/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Mayor Justin Bibb announced the city rejected Lakeland Equity Group’s permit for a $1.6 billion, 150-MW data center in Slavic Village and said the city is developing policies and safeguards.
Ward 15 Councilman Charles Slife introduced a May 4 moratorium ordinance because he feared the data center would be invasive to nearby homes.
Residents Dorothy Blackwell and Witold Sztalkopr said they want information on water, power, traffic and neighborhood finances.

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Story summary

Mayor Justin Bibb announced the city rejected Lakeland Equity Group’s permit for a $1.6 billion, 150-MW data center in Slavic Village and said the city is developing policies and safeguards.
Ward 15 Councilman Charles Slife introduced a May 4 moratorium ordinance because he feared the data center would be invasive to nearby homes.
Residents Dorothy Blackwell and Witold Sztalkopr said they want information on water, power, traffic and neighborhood finances.