Reading puts temporary pause on data centers while drafting regulations

Reading City Council has unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on new data center proposals, leveraging a state law provision to dedicate time for drafting specific zoning regulations. The city's existing zoning ordinance does not specifically address data centers, prompting the need for new rules to govern the fast-growing industry.

During this 180-day period, the city will not consider zoning permit applications or other approvals for data centers. The resolution, advanced by Councilman Jaime Baez Jr., garnered public support from residents and the group Berks Stands Up, who voiced concerns about potential impacts on water supplies, electricity demand, and the environment.

Council Solicitor Michael Gombar explained that state law allows municipalities to declare their zoning ordinances substantively invalid when they fail to address particular land uses. This curative amendment process provides the city with a window to establish comprehensive standards for issues such as water consumption, electricity demand, and environmental impacts, which are currently lacking in the broad-based language of the existing ordinance.

Baez emphasized that the effort is a proactive step to protect the city's land, air, water, and residents. The draft amendment, drawing inspiration from regulations in other Pennsylvania municipalities like Kutztown and Allentown, proposes to permit data centers only as a conditional use within the city's heavy manufacturing district, necessitating council approval for any project. It also mandates specific operational standards, including closed-loop cooling systems to conserve water. Council President Donna Reed and Community Development Director David Barr underscored the importance of a thorough review by city departments and the planning commission to ensure robust safeguards are in place.