Most of us know to brace ourselves when we read an anticipated response that begins with “after careful consideration.” That was certainly necessary for Licking County residents after Microsoft followed those words with “we will not be moving forward at this time with our plans to build data centers at the Licking County sites.”

Microsoft has decided against the development, proving Licking County Commission President Tim Bubb wise to have told WCMH nearly two years ago, “We’ll believe it when we see it.”

To be fair, Microsoft said it will take “appropriate steps” to ensure the land it owns in the county is used for farming, according to a report by WCMH. But land purchased for a New Albany project is now one of two announced projects that have been halted.

Add the Microsoft news to Intel walking back its promises for the region and a worrying picture comes in to focus. In fact, it is somewhat the opposite of the “clustering effect” Bubb described in 2023. In Microsoft’s case, there has not been a reason given for the cold feet. Other potential developments for the region are stalled due to various reasons.

It’s time Ohio lawmakers and publicly funded economic development officials started delivering — and holding potential employers accountable.