New Morgan approves data center zoning changes
New Morgan Borough Council unanimously approved zoning changes from residential to industrial and created a data center overlay district, despite significant public opposition from over 200 residents. The new ordinance includes regulations addressing water, electricity, noise, and other impacts for potential future data center developments.
More than 200 residents, primarily from surrounding Robeson and Caernarvon townships, gathered at New Morgan Borough Hall to express strong opposition to proposed zoning changes that would permit data centers along Route 10. Despite widespread concerns regarding private wells, groundwater, deforestation, traffic, pollution, rising electricity costs, and noise, the New Morgan Borough Council unanimously voted to approve the re-zoning of property from residential to industrial and establish a data center overlay district.
Borough solicitor Nicole Plank clarified that no data center application has yet been submitted, emphasizing that the borough is proactively setting rules for future developments. The new ordinance incorporates provisions to address potential impacts such as water and electricity usage, noise, and setbacks. Council President Tressie Marroon-Bailey stated the overlay would grant New Morgan officials control over data center placement and operations, citing potential commercial tax base expansion. However, opponents like Ed Weaver of Weaver's Orchard highlighted concerns about dwindling groundwater levels affecting agricultural businesses, while Anne-Marie McMahon of the Hay Creek Watershed Association warned of threats to local water quality due to the proposed location near sensitive headwaters. State Rep. Mark Gillen also urged caution, raising questions about emergency preparedness for data center fires and broader impacts on the commonwealth's resources.