Reading council member urges city to adopt data center rules before applications arrive
A Reading council member argues that the city should adopt data center regulations before any application is filed. The proposed rules would address noise, water and electricity demand, setbacks, waterways, and infrastructure protections.
A Reading City Council member says the city should establish strong data center protections before a project is proposed. The council member helped draft legislation to address a gap in Reading’s zoning code and supported a July 13 resolution giving the city 180 days to develop rules.
The proposed ordinance is undergoing technical review with help from the planning commission, city staff, and legal counsel. The council member is urging colleagues to strengthen the draft and include enforceable noise standards, review of water and electricity demands, setbacks, and safeguards for waterways and public infrastructure, while incorporating residents’ concerns.