Adams Township passes data center moratorium
The Adams Township Board of Supervisors has approved a 180-day moratorium on applications for six business types, including data centers. This preemptive measure aims to allow the planning commission time to amend the zoning ordinance to regulate these land uses. The moratorium was not initiated by an active data center proposal.
The Adams Township Board of Supervisors has approved a 180-day moratorium on applications for six types of businesses, including data centers. The decision was made at their regular meeting on Monday, June 22, and also covers power generation plants, large-scale and accessory solar systems, last mile fulfillment centers, micro-warehouses, and dispensaries.
Chairman Russell Ford clarified that the moratorium is a preemptive measure, not prompted by any current developer proposals for a data center in Adams Township. He emphasized the board's intention to "forward think" in anticipation of future interest from developers.
The purpose of the temporary halt is to provide the Adams Township planning commission with sufficient time to develop an amendment to the existing zoning ordinance. Township solicitor Michael Gallagher explained that without specific zoning regulations for businesses like data centers, developers could potentially apply to construct them in any area of the township, including residential zones.
By amending the zoning code, Adams Township aims to establish specific locations where these businesses can be built or to require a conditional use permit for their development. The final amendment to the zoning ordinance must be approved by the Board of Supervisors within the 180-day moratorium period.