Jefferson Township supervisors discuss data center ordinance
Jefferson Township supervisors have initiated the process to draft an ordinance regulating data center development, with the planning commission tasked to create the proposed rules. This proactive measure aims to protect the township from potential issues, following a previous dispute over a solar array. The proposed ordinance will be discussed further by the planning commission on July 13.
The Jefferson Township Board of Supervisors in Pennsylvania unanimously voted 3-0 to move forward with drafting an ordinance aimed at regulating data center development within the township. Supervisor Chairwoman Lois Rankin advocated for the proactive measure, citing a desire to protect the township and prevent a repeat of past disputes, specifically referencing a contentious plan for a solar array by Sunvest Solar.
The initiative comes as data center development has become a prominent issue across Butler County, with neighboring Summit and Center townships also discussing potential regulations. Rankin acknowledged that Jefferson Township's lack of a comprehensive zoning ordinance presents certain limitations but expressed confidence in finding effective ways to regulate data centers.
She suggested that the township's ordinance could draw inspiration from Clearfield Township's solar farm ordinance, which requires companies to own or lease a minimum of 200 acres for development. The Jefferson Township planning commission is scheduled to hold a meeting on July 13 to further discuss and draft the proposed data center ordinance.