Amwell supervisors table vote on data center ordinance

The Amwell Township Board of Supervisors in Washington County, Pennsylvania, has postponed a vote on a proposed data center ordinance after facing strong public opposition. More than 50 residents attended a special meeting, where many expressed concerns about the potential for light, noise, and water pollution from future data center projects. There was also frustration regarding the perceived lack of adequate time for public comment on the draft ordinance, with some residents pointing out that the 4 p.m. meeting start time made it difficult for working individuals to attend. Amwell Supervisor Chairman H. Wayne Montgomery stated that the ordinance was a "proactive" measure, as the township has not yet received any data center applications. However, residents urged the board to revise the draft, suggesting changes like increasing minimum property line setbacks for data center buildings from 100 feet to 1,000 feet, similar to discussions in South Strabane Township. Solicitor John "Jack" Cambest advised that the township could not deny a development project if it complied with existing zoning and permitting requirements. In response to the feedback, Supervisor Montgomery proposed delaying the adoption vote until the next meeting in June and scheduling a second special meeting at the Lone Pine Social Hall, a larger venue. This additional meeting will be held later in the evening to facilitate greater public participation, allowing supervisors more time to refine the draft ordinance.