Archbald denies conditional use application for data center

The Archbald Borough Council unanimously voted to deny a conditional use application for Archbald 1, LLC’s "Project Scott" data center, following a packed and emotional public meeting. Hundreds of residents gathered, expressing strong opposition to the proposed development which included up to 18 massive data center buildings, each nearly 90 feet tall and equipped with dozens of diesel generators, across roughly 400 acres near Stback Park. The council's 5-0 decision came under pressure as leaders had to act by the weekend to prevent automatic approval under state law, and followed a chaotic week during which a previous hearing was cancelled due to a public notice error. Community organizers and residents, including children, voiced frustrations and fears regarding the potential impact on land, schools, parks, and air quality, celebrating the council's "right decision." Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gawan, who received a standing ovation, vehemently opposed the project, calling it "exploitation" and drawing parallels to the region's coal mining past where land was stripped and communities were left with environmental issues. Councilman Tommanisca cast his final vote before immediately resigning due to health reasons. For residents, the vote signified growing resistance in Archbald, with a clear message that they are not backing down.