Data centers: Ransom Twp. denies zoning amendment request after resident's lawyer points out flaws

Ransom Twp. supervisors voted 2-1 to reject a property owner's request to change the zoning ordinance and allow development of a data center campus. The vote came after resident's lawyer Laura McGarry pointed out flaws in the hearing process and the applicant's case. McGarry argued the applicant, Scranton Materials LLC, failed to authenticate exhibits, present witnesses, or provide information to parties ahead of the meeting. The planning commission had recommended the supervisors not accept the proposed data center zoning overlay. While the applicant's lawyers argued the township's procedures were followed, the supervisors agreed with McGarry's motion for a nonsuit and denied the application, stating the applicant did not present sufficient evidence.