Hatfield Township may invoke zoning protections for data centers, energy systems
Hatfield Township commissioners are considering initiating a municipal curative amendment process to address perceived deficiencies in their zoning ordinance regarding data centers and energy-generation systems. This legal step would allow the township to develop new zoning provisions and protect itself from landowner challenges while the new rules are being drafted. The process would not approve specific projects but would establish guidelines for future development.
Hatfield Township commissioners are set to consider a resolution initiating a municipal curative amendment process on Wednesday, signaling their intent to revise zoning regulations concerning data centers and energy-generation systems. This action, permissible under Pennsylvania
By invoking the curative amendment protection, the township seeks to prevent landowners from filing their own curative amendment challenges during the municipal process, similar to a situation Buckingham Township in Bucks County is currently facing with a residential development proposal. Officials will be tasked with identifying specific deficiencies in the current ordinance and preparing the amendment within state-mandated timeframes. The agenda did not specify any particular pending project that prompted this proposed regulatory action.
The proposed resolution is an initial step in developing comprehensive guidelines and does not imply the approval of any specific data center or energy project.