Senator Moreno Criticizes $4.5M Tax Break for Project Creating Just 10 Jobs

Filmogaz.com reports U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno has urged a global private equity firm to decline a $4.5 million state tax break. The incentive would support an Ark Data Centers expansion in Akron and Independence. Moreno says the project will create only 10 jobs.

Incentive specifics

The Ohio Tax Credit Authority approved a 50% sales tax exemption. The exemption will run for the next decade. The break backs a $136 million expansion by Ark Data Centers, owned by the Carlyle Group.

Senator Moreno’s objections

Moreno called the award a “sweetheart deal” for Wall Street. He argued Ohio taxpayers and utility customers would shoulder costs. He calculated the subsidy as roughly $450,000 per projected job.

Demands in the letter

The senator sent a letter Monday to the Carlyle Group and the Ohio Department of Development. He asked the firm to voluntarily relinquish the subsidy. He urged a stronger commitment to job creation in the region.

Energy and ratepayer concerns

Moreno warned that data centers consume large amounts of electricity. He said this could raise rates for residents and small businesses. He recommended the Carlyle Group sign the Ratepayer Protection Pledge.

The pledge, promoted by President Donald Trump, asks companies to fund needed power infrastructure. Moreno cited examples of Google, Amazon, and Meta funding energy resources or grid upgrades. He said taxpayers deserve clear accountability and a measurable return on public incentives.

Response and next steps

Representatives for the Carlyle Group did not immediately comment. State officials approved the sales tax exemption through the Ohio Tax Credit Authority. Moreno remains publicly critical of the $4.5 million tax break and its projected job yield.