Commissioners provide update on data center

Tioga County commissioners, including Shane Nickerson and Marc Rice, held a meeting on April 14 to provide an update on potential data center development within the county. Commissioner Nickerson highlighted that the county has adopted an ordinance to regulate data center operations, covering aspects like setbacks, landscaping, noise levels, and building height. This ordinance, however, does not grant approval for data centers, as that decision rests with the state. While no specific data center applications have been submitted, the county is aware of offers to purchase property for such developments. Nickerson explained that the ordinance gives the county and its municipalities control over the appearance and operation of data centers, while zoning regulations dictate their permissible locations. He noted that only 19 of the county's 39 townships and boroughs currently have zoning in place. The commissioners also discussed the potential for community benefit agreements, which could address issues outside the county's direct control, such as funding for fire departments or road maintenance, particularly given the specialized training and equipment required for emergency responses to data center incidents. Commissioner Marc Rice emphasized that the commissioners are "not for data centers" and share the public's concerns, urging residents to educate themselves and engage in the process. He announced that the county plans to create a sample community benefit agreement for municipalities to adapt. Nickerson underscored the county's appeal to data centers, stating, "The reality is we are sitting on one of the largest natural gas deposits in the world... They wouldn’t be looking at Tioga County for any other reason. We need to be prepared, folks." During public comment, Danni Logue of Covington Township encouraged residents to get involved and contact legislators.