Hundreds in Mt. Carmel Township speak out in opposition to data centers

Residents of Mt. Carmel Township in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, expressed strong opposition to data center development at a recent public meeting. Township supervisors, while stating they cannot outright ban data centers, have introduced a new zoning ordinance aimed at limiting their development to old or abandoned mining sites. The proposed ordinance includes regulations on data center size, buffer zones, noise levels, and water consumption. Donna Costello of Kulpmont voiced concerns about data centers being built near homes and forests. Don Ponatoski of Mt. Carmel Township criticized the proposed $1,000 fine for violations, suggesting it should be significantly higher. John Leshinski, also from Mt. Carmel Township, requested supervisors consider implementing a 180-day moratorium on any new data center proposals using Pennsylvania's municipalities' planning code. Conversely, Chris McGinley of Mt. Carmel Township highlighted potential benefits, arguing that data centers could provide much-needed tax revenue to improve public services and salaries for teachers and police. The township supervisors are scheduled to vote on the new ordinance on Monday, May 18.