'Ahead of the curve:' Rural Pennsylvania township approves new data center ordinance
Bedford Township, Pennsylvania, has unanimously approved a new ordinance to regulate future data center development, aiming to establish ground rules before any proposals are made. This proactive measure addresses concerns such as water usage, noise levels, and environmental protections. Officials assert that while an outright ban is not legal, a comprehensive ordinance provides necessary protections.
The Bedford Township Supervisors in Pennsylvania unanimously approved a new ordinance on Tuesday night, establishing regulations for future data center developments. This proactive measure, described as "getting ahead of the curve," aims to set ground rules before any specific data center proposals are submitted, as the township's solicitor, Brad Allison, confirmed that outright bans on data centers are not legally permissible.
The nearly 25-page ordinance outlines requirements for various aspects of data center operations, including water use, noise levels, electrical infrastructure, environmental protections, and emergency response planning. Several residents attended the meeting to voice support for the ordinance, expressing concerns about the potential negative impacts of data centers on local farmlands and property values.
While acknowledging the economic incentives for landowners to sell to data center developers, residents and officials emphasized the need for a regulatory framework. Officials stated their intent to review and update the ordinance over time to ensure it remains effective in protecting the community's interests.