Developer backs out of Sugarloaf Twp. data center project
A Chicago-based developer, LBT Investment Group LLC, has abandoned plans for a data center in Sugarloaf Township, PA. However, the property owner and a new developer, Sugarloaf Logistics, are continuing a legal appeal to amend the township's zoning ordinance to permit data centers. A Luzerne County judge is currently deciding whether to allow Sugarloaf Logistics to intervene in the ongoing appeal.
LBT Investment Group LLC, a Chicago-based developer, has withdrawn from a proposed data center project in Sugarloaf Township, Pennsylvania. The company had planned to build a six-data center complex on 185 acres. Despite LBT's departure, the property owner, the Richard Angelo Family Trust, and a new developer, Sugarloaf Logistics, are continuing efforts to secure an amendment to the township's zoning ordinance that would permit data centers.
The township's existing zoning ordinance does not allow data centers, and supervisors previously rejected amendments proposed by LBT. LBT subsequently appealed this decision to the Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas. Attorney Jack Dean, representing Sugarloaf Township residents, filed a motion to dismiss LBT's appeal, arguing the company lacked legal standing as it is registered out of state.
The parties appeared in court, with Sugarloaf Logistics seeking to replace LBT as a plaintiff in the appeal. Dean contended that the substitution was too late, 14 months after the initial appeal, and legally impermissible, asserting the case should be dismissed. Kevin T. Fogerty, attorney for Sugarloaf Logistics, argued against undue delay, stating his client acted promptly after learning LBT had backed out. Luzerne County Judge Lesa S. Gelb took the matter under advisement and will issue a ruling later.