Moosic continues navigating data center zoning process

Moosic Borough in Pennsylvania is actively developing new zoning regulations for data centers, with its planning commission recently reviewing a proposed ordinance. Mayor Bob Bennie emphasized a multi-step process to ensure thorough protection for the borough and its residents. The proposed ordinance follows a September vote by the Moosic Borough Council to amend zoning due to increasing data center proposals in the broader Lackawanna County, which currently has at least 12 such proposals, many entangled in zoning or court disputes. During the planning commission meeting, residents voiced significant concerns regarding potential data centers, focusing on issues such as water and energy consumption, noise pollution, and air pollution. For the first time, representatives from the data center industry also provided input, warning against overly restrictive measures that could lead to legal challenges for exclusionary zoning, as Pennsylvania municipalities are legally required to permit all lawful land uses. Moosic intends to classify data centers as "special exceptions" within its manufacturing zoning district, requiring a minimum site size of 30 acres, which limits potential locations to three specific areas. Other proposed criteria include building height limits (45 feet), aesthetic guidelines, and comprehensive regulations for noise and electricity consumption. An engineering resident also highlighted the need to regulate lower-frequency dBC noise, not just dBA. The Lackawanna County Regional Planning Commission is slated to review the ordinance on April 9, with a public hearing potentially in May or June.