Divided Columbia council advances law restricting data centers from zone that covers old airport
The Columbia Borough Council voted 4-3 to advance an ordinance that would remove data centers from permitted uses in light business zoning districts, including the former McGinness airport property. This change aims to block data centers from being built there while still allowing them as a conditional use in general industrial zones.
The Columbia Borough Council in Pennsylvania held a meeting on July 14 where they voted 4-3 to advance a proposed ordinance that would significantly restrict data center development. This measure seeks to remove data centers from the list of permitted uses within light business zoning districts.
The change is specifically aimed at preventing data centers from being constructed on the former McGinness airport property. Under the proposed ordinance, data centers would still be permitted as a conditional use in general industrial zones within the borough. The ordinance will now undergo further public scrutiny before a final decision by the council.