Scrubgrass Township Urgent Data Center Meeting
Scrubgrass Township in Venango County, Pennsylvania, is urgently working to create a zoning ordinance to restrict data center construction after Keel Infrastructure proposed a 1.3-gigawatt facility. Residents expressed significant concerns about noise, water, and electricity use, fearing they might have to move if regulations are not put in place.
Scrubgrass Township in Venango County, Pennsylvania, is rapidly developing a zoning ordinance to address data center construction. This urgent action comes in response to a concept plan proposed by Keel Infrastructure for a 1.3-gigawatt data center along the Allegheny River, which, if built, would be one of the largest in the state. Keel Infrastructure already owns a power plant in the area.
Over 150 residents attended a meeting at the Clintonville Fire Department, expressing concerns about potential noise pollution, as highlighted by an Army veteran whose tinnitus is already exacerbated by the existing power plant's operations. Residents also raised alarms about the data center's significant water and electricity consumption, fearing they might be forced to relocate if an ordinance isn't enacted soon.
The township currently lacks a planning commission and any zoning ordinances, prompting supervisors to act quickly. The next township meeting on July 21st will be open for public comment. Both Scrubgrass Township supervisors and representatives from MPL Law Firm, who are advising the township, declined to comment. Residents are encouraged to offer their time and volunteerism to support the township board in developing the necessary regulations.