With one data center zone rejected, Bear Creek Twp. officials now considering two others
Bear Creek Township supervisors rejected a proposed zoning change that would have expanded the industrial zone to accommodate data centers, following strong resident opposition. However, the supervisors are now considering two alternative proposals for industrial zone expansion, leading to continued public debate and upcoming meetings. Residents and advocacy groups vow to continue their fight against any expansion.
Bear Creek Township supervisors recently voted to reject a proposed zoning change that would have expanded the township's industrial zone into residential areas to accommodate data centers. The decision came after strong opposition from residents, who expressed concerns about unchecked development and the potential precedent set by such changes. Township Chairman Robert Suchocki declared the initial proposal "dead" after no supervisor moved to support it.
Despite the rejection of the first proposal, the supervisors are now considering two alternative plans that would also expand the industrial zoning district, though to a lesser extent. These alternatives are set to be discussed at a public hearing on September 30, followed by a special meeting. Residents, including Ben Poole and Paul Miller, founder of Bear Creek Protectors, continue to implore supervisors not to expand the industrial zone at all, citing examples like Salem Township where data center overlay zones significantly grew over time.
Property owners like David Popple have also voiced objections, claiming the alternative proposals unfairly target specific parcels. Further discussions on the zoning changes are scheduled for the township planning commission meeting on September 9 and the supervisors' regular meeting on September 14, where an attorney representing Bear Creek residents is expected to speak.