Bear Creek Twp. sets special meeting to decide whether or not to expand industrial zone
Bear Creek Township supervisors advanced two versions of a data center zoning ordinance, one retaining the existing 66-acre industrial zone and another expanding it. The board is scheduled to choose between the options at a special meeting, amid strong resident opposition focused on development impacts to water, wildlife and natural resources.
Bear Creek Township supervisors advanced two versions of a proposed data center zoning ordinance during a special meeting. One would keep data center, farm and solar uses within the existing 66-acre I-1 Industrial Area, while the other would expand the industrial zone; both versions include the same conditional-use standards and performance requirements.
The board is expected to select an option at a special meeting on Oct. 15, one day before the township's 180-day window to adopt a curative amendment expires. Residents applauded the version without an expansion and urged supervisors to protect the community's water, wildlife and other natural resources. The board previously rejected a map that would have increased the industrial zone by more than 700%, while township solicitor Michael B. Senape said the rezoning issue arose partly because developers could challenge the existing industrial area as exclusionary.