Several ordinances passed in Mahoning Township to regulate zoning for data centers
The Mahoning Township Board of Supervisors passed several ordinances to regulate data center development, including new restrictions on setbacks, noise, and vibration. These regulations also address power generation and battery storage for facilities in industrial zones. The action was prompted by growing local concerns and the recent submission of a preliminary data center plan.
The Mahoning Township Board of Supervisors recently enacted a series of ordinances aimed at regulating data center development within the township. Township solicitor Louis Perrotta stated that the first ordinance focused on power generation, designating industrial districts for potential power plants.
Additional ordinances included an amendment to an existing data center ordinance, which now imposes stricter restrictions on setbacks, noise, and vibration. The board also passed regulations specifically for battery storage facilities. All these new rules are applicable to the township's four designated industrial areas.
The swift action by the supervisors was a direct response to increasing community concerns regarding the impact of data centers and followed the submission of a preliminary data center plan to the township approximately a week prior. Residents voiced their appreciation, acknowledging the supervisors' efforts to balance economic growth with community protection.
Perrotta emphasized the necessity of these regulations, stating that without them, the township risked being overrun by data center developers looking to establish operations.