Pa. township solicitor to earn big payout in Amazon data center deal
Salem Township solicitor Tony McDonald and his law firm could receive up to $675,000 if Amazon secures permits and occupancy certificates for a proposed data center campus. Critics and ethics experts say tying the township lawyer’s compensation to the project’s success creates a conflict of interest, while Pennsylvania officials have yet to release promised guidance on community benefits agreements.
Amazon is seeking to build a data center campus in Salem Township, Luzerne County, under a community benefits agreement that would provide the township with $9 million. Township solicitor Tony McDonald negotiated the agreement, but his firm could receive as much as $675,000 in six installments if Amazon obtains a building permit and five occupancy certificates.
Experts described the arrangement as a potential conflict because McDonald represents township residents while his compensation depends on Amazon receiving the approvals it needs. McDonald said local officials have been forced to develop these agreements quickly as data centers move into communities. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an executive order directing the state to provide guidance on community benefits agreements, but his administration has not yet issued the guidelines or provided a timeline.