West Mahanoy invokes six month moratorium on data centers, solar farms, mulls regulations
West Mahanoy Township supervisors approved a six-month moratorium on new data center and solar farm developments. This action allows the township to update its zoning ordinances, which currently lack adequate protections and standards for these types of uses. Officials emphasize no data center applications are currently pending.
West Mahanoy Township supervisors in Pennsylvania unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on data center and solar farm developments, citing a deficiency in current zoning ordinances. Solicitor Jim Amato stated that while the township cannot prohibit such developments, it can control them, and the existing ordinances lack necessary protections and standards, particularly regarding "unique, potentially wide-ranging impacts." The resolution invokes the curative amendment process, preventing the township from considering new applications for 180 days while it updates its zoning regulations.
The township has hired Siana Law as special counsel to assist with the ordinance update, which is expected to include considerations for noise requirements, buffer zones, power sources, and community benefits. A draft ordinance is anticipated next month, with the West Mahanoy Township Planning Commission reviewing it first. Township officials clarified that no specific data center applications have been submitted to date, despite developments proceeding in nearby Butler and Kline townships under warehouse permits. Residents, such as Joe Beacher of Shenandoah Heights, voiced concerns about power sources and land use, suggesting reclaimed strip mines for such developments.