Data center concerns prompt regime change in Archbald

The Archbald Borough Council saw a significant leadership change following more than a year of intense opposition to six proposed data center campuses. During a meeting on Wednesday, March 18, the sitting president, vice president, and president pro tem were ousted from their positions. Four other council members initiated the removal, citing that the former leaders were not acting in the borough's or its residents' best interests concerning the data center proposals. Council members Moran, Guman, and Andreoli, along with former council member Francis Burke, had previously voted on November 24 to install a controversial data center zoning overlay in the borough. This decision was met with strong pleas from residents to take more time for research before allowing data center zoning, as municipalities cannot legally ban data centers but must provide zoning for all possible uses. Residents, including Geralyn Esposito and Madonna Munley, applauded the council members who pushed for the change, expressing relief and hope for a new direction. Munley extended an offer to the new council majority to work together with transparency and honesty, aiming for the best interests of Archbald residents. Residents, organized as "Stop Archbald Data Centers," continue to raise concerns about the potential diminished quality of life, air quality impacts from diesel generators, and potential disruptions to water and electric services from the 24/7 operations of data centers. Former council member Moran, while respecting the council's decision, stated he believes he served the borough well and pledged to work with the new leadership.