Taylor Township adopts data center ordinance amid heated public outcry
Taylor Township officials approved an ordinance amendment establishing guidelines for data center development near an old paper mill site in Blair County. More than 200 residents voiced concerns about setbacks, screening and the proposed project during a contentious public meeting, while officials said additional discussions will continue.
Taylor Township supervisors approved an amendment to the township ordinance intended to establish rules for a proposed data center on a mountain near a former paper mill site in Blair County. The vote occurred before the developer submits formal construction plans, and township officials said the ordinance was necessary to put development standards in place.
The two-hour meeting drew more than 200 residents and heated criticism from opponents, who argued that the proposed setbacks and screening requirements were inadequate and that their concerns had been ignored. State Rep. Scott Barger attended the meeting and said Pennsylvania may need to reconsider how data-center rules are enforced, including whether the current maximum state penalty of $1,000 per day is sufficient. Supervisors approved the amendment but emphasized that discussions would continue.