POTTSVILLE — Data centers are “not bad.” compared to other projects that create economic development, the chairman of the Schuylkill County Commissioners says.

Larry Padora made the comment when a Frackville resident approached the commissioners at their weekly meeting Wednesday.

That resident was asking for help to stop a potential data center proposed for Frackville,

Padora said “modern” data centers which use less water than older versions, are more palatable.

“These modern data centers have a closed loop system, and use only 10,000 gallons of water per day,” Padora said, as opposed to a lot more that has to be disposed of, he said.

“These data centers employ 85-100 people at salaries of $85,000 a year that can generate $2 million in taxes per year. Data centers, in the right location, are not bad. We need economic development.”

The commissioners also approved a cooperation agreement with the Borough of Tamaqua for a structure at 401 Willing Street.

The commissioner also approved a Community Development Block Grant Americans with Disabilities Act project to build curb ramps.

The commissioners also approved the executive board members of the Schuylkill County Fire Chiefs’ Association for 2026: Frank Zangari, Girardville, chairman, and John Blickley, Frackville; Robert Leshko, McAdoo; Gary Witmier, Pottsville; Dave Sattizan, Pine Grove, and Scott Krater, Port Carbon.

The board also endorsed the advisory board for the association — Jack Messner Pottsville; Ronald Radel, Sacramento; John Kellerman, Minerville; John Matz, Deer Lake-West Brunswick Township, and Art Connely, Tamaqua.