Scott Twp. officials vote on preemptive data center zoning ordinances

Scott Township supervisors have unanimously passed new zoning ordinances designed to make data center development significantly more difficult and expensive within the township. The amendments, which also cover solar panels, restrict data centers to a specific industrial zone, a wooded area along I-80 in the northwest part of the township. This action was taken preemptively to ensure data centers do not "just end up anywhere" under Pennsylvania law, which requires legal land uses to be zoned. The newly enacted ordinance imposes stringent requirements, including restrictions on noise levels, facility size, and power consumption. Critically, it prohibits data centers from drawing water from wells, mandating power and water studies before any project approval. Township supervisor Michael Giannetta stated the goal was not to attract data centers but to meet minimum legal requirements and deter construction through challenging restrictions and site location, specifically noting the distance from necessary utilities. Despite the passage, some residents expressed criticisms, advocating for even stricter environmental regulations, particularly concerning pollutant-producing generators. Supervisors acknowledged these concerns but prioritized implementing immediate regulations, indicating a willingness to amend the ordinances later rather than delay and risk uncontrolled development. Residents were encouraged to participate in future planning meetings to provide further input.