Zoning change OK'd in Shalersville. What's next in data center fight?
Shalersville Township trustees unanimously approved zoning amendments distinguishing light and heavy industry based on electricity use, a change that could block Bitdeer’s proposed 750-megawatt data center. The developer’s attorney called the amendment unlawful, while township officials and residents argued the project application was never accepted under the prior zoning rules.
Shalersville Township trustees unanimously approved an amendment defining heavy industry as operations capable of using or generating at least 25 megawatts per day. Because no township property is zoned for heavy industry, the change could prevent Bitdeer from building a proposed 15-building data center at the Turnpike Commerce Center on 257 acres near state Route 44 and Beck Road.
Liz Alexander, an attorney for developer Shalersville Holdings, argued that the amendment was unlawful and should not apply to an application submitted under earlier regulations. Trustee Ron Kotkowski said the application had never been accepted, while residents opposed to the project cited its potential 750-megawatt power demand. The township’s existing data center moratorium is scheduled to expire in November, and additional zoning discussions are planned before the regional planning commission, zoning board and trustees.