Patton Twp. approves zoning ordinance amendment amidst pushback against data centers

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has signed an executive order to limit data center development across the Commonwealth, a significant reversal from his previous pro-development stance. The new order mandates that data center projects must adhere to strict community-oriented guidelines to receive state permits, including requiring community benefit agreements and obligating developers to supply their own energy and cover associated costs. This move follows growing concerns from Pennsylvanians regarding data center impacts.

Amidst this statewide shift, local communities are also implementing their own protective measures. Patton Township ’s board of supervisors, in Centre County, approved a zoning ordinance amendment that effectively prohibits large-scale data center development within the municipality. This decision aligns with regulations previously established by College Township, with which Patton Township shares an intermunicipal zoning agreement. The amendment means any future data center proposals for Patton Township would need to locate in College Township and comply with its conditional use standards, such as buffer zones and energy use requirements.

Patton Township manager Amy Farkas expressed support for the Governor ’s executive order, stating it provides "local control" over facilities that are "sited locally" and impact residents. She emphasized the importance of state actions that empower local communities in dealing with the consequences of data center development. Ferguson Township in the Centre region is also exploring options to address data center concerns.