A local business owner in Basom has raised significant concerns regarding the proposed development of a data center near her property. LeeAnn Mullen, the owner of both the Tahoe Pines Wellness Center, LLC, and Tahoe Pines Custom Sewing & Designs, expressed her worries following the approval and subsequent revocation of a data center project by the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC).
The GCEDC initially approved the data center in March 2025, but they later announced that the developer, Stream Data Center, intends to submit a proposal for a larger facility at the same site. Mullen, who has dedicated over 35 years to medical management and wellness, purchased her property in 2009 with the intention of creating a serene environment that aligns with her wellness-focused business.
Mullen highlighted the appeal of the location, which features the picturesque beauty of pine trees and proximity to the Iroquois Wildlife Refuge. She emphasized that these natural attributes were a primary reason for her investment in the area, believing it was an ideal setting for her wellness center.
In her letter, Mullen articulated the potential environmental and health risks associated with the new data center. She expressed concern about how such developments might affect local wildlife and the overall quality of life for residents. The threat to the natural landscape, which she and many others hold dear, is a central point of her argument against the changes being proposed.
The community’s response to the GCEDC’s updated plans remains to be seen, as residents and local business owners like Mullen contemplate the implications of such a significant development on their lives and environment. Mullen’s efforts to advocate for preserving the area’s natural beauty reflect a broader sentiment among residents who cherish the tranquility and ecological diversity of Basom.
As discussions surrounding the data center continue, Mullen is determined to ensure that the voices of local stakeholders are heard. She believes that the community should be actively involved in decisions that could impact their health, environment, and future. The outcome will likely set a precedent for how similar projects are approached in the region, balancing development with the preservation of local resources and aesthetics.
