WILLIAMSPORT, LYCOMING COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Four of Pennsylvania's congressmen gathered at a roundtable with area business leaders earlier Wednesday. It centered around opportunities in northeastern and central Pennsylvania.
At the Pennsylvania College of Technology, a roundtable focusing on energy, manufacturing, and growth in rural communities.
A dozen local business leaders came together to address opportunities and concerns to Republican Congressmen Dan Meuser, Rob Bresnahan, Glen Thompson, and Ryan Mackenzie. Among the topics discussed, the benefits of data centers.
"Data centers are almost a renaissance in our economy. From a manufacturing standpoint, our schools will be better because of them. The jobs that come with them. Clearly, we need more energy to be the place that these data centers want to develop," Representative Meuser explained.
Congressman Meuser says putting data centers up without affecting quality of life is important.
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"Having Pennsylvania be the best place to live comes first. But economic prosperity is a part of that. And this is just a reality that's being handed to us that we need to maximize," Representative Meuser continued.
He also says Pennsylvania has some resources for local businesses, but could be doing better.
"Our general workforce is very, very good. Our schools are good, but need to be better, particularly in career development. The governor's office needs to get out of the way and let the Pennsylvania economy grow, and that requires far fewer regulatory obstacles than exist today," Representative Meuser said.
Jesse Bonnice is the co-founder of C2G Energy Solutions and says he has concerns with the regulation of a new technology being introduced.
"Business is tough in general, and it's really hard to bring on a new technology that's never been done before. And as we start to embark on that, we just appreciate all the government support we can get," Bonnice told 28/22 News.
He also says he's grateful to discuss plans for his business with the representatives.
"I always do feel heard, and it's much appreciated when they take the time. I know how busy they are. But, take the time and come and listen to what we're dealing with from an industry standpoint and things that can help us," Bonnice added.
Both sides seemed to be on the same page about most everything in the meeting, including the importance of using natural resources to shape Pennsylvania's future.
