Officials exploring county’s standing to enter data center fight

Lackawanna County officials are actively exploring their legal options to intervene against several proposed data center projects in Archbald, Pennsylvania. Commissioners Bill Gaughan and Thom Welby have reiterated their strong opposition, particularly to Project Gravity, Project North, and Project Green Mountain, which are planned near county housing authority properties and the county-owned Aylesworth Park. Gaughan emphasized that these developments, due to their proximity to county assets, transform the issue from a local zoning matter into a county-wide concern. County Solicitor Chris Caputo confirmed that while the county does not possess direct authority over municipal zoning decisions, it has legal standing as an affected landowner. This allows the county to dispute proposed zoning changes that would negatively impact its property or to initiate lawsuits concerning potential nuisance, traffic, pollution, and noise. Welby echoed this sentiment, agreeing that if legal counsel advises intervention, the county should pursue it due to the inappropriate location of these developments within residential areas. Republican Commissioner Chris Chermak indicated he would discuss the matter with the county's legal team before deciding on any action. Commissioner Gaughan stated that "every option is on the table" to protect county assets and residents, emphasizing the need for the county to actively object, present expert opinions, demand accountability, and appeal decisions if necessary, rather than remain silent. The specific actions the county might take are yet to be determined, but the intent to leverage all lawful tools for opposition is clear.