Center Township places moratorium on data center development
Center Township, Pennsylvania, has enacted a 180-day moratorium on data center and power generation plant development. This proactive measure aims to allow the township time to establish comprehensive zoning and code regulations to address concerns such as noise, water, and power usage. Supervisors noted they have not yet received development requests but want to be prepared.
Center Township, Pennsylvania, has implemented a 180-day moratorium on new data center and power generation plant developments. The township's Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a curative amendment on June 10, pausing new projects to allow time for the creation of specific zoning and code regulations. This proactive step follows concerns about the rapid expansion of data centers across Pennsylvania.
Supervisors Phil Wulff, Don Pringle, and Mark Lauer emphasized the need to address potential issues like water and power consumption, as well as noise pollution, to protect residents' quality of life. Supervisor Pringle, who spearheaded the effort, noted that while no data center development requests have been received yet, the board recognized the urgency to establish guidelines. The moratorium will provide the board, zoning and code enforcement, and the solicitor with the necessary time to draft a comprehensive ordinance.
The township aims to prevent data centers from developing in undesirable locations or negatively impacting residents. Center Township joins other municipalities, such as Summit and Jefferson townships, in taking preventative measures. The next Board of Supervisors meeting is scheduled for July 8.