Plains Twp. holds hearing on data-center overlay
Plains Township held a public hearing on a proposed zoning overlay district that would permit data centers as a conditional use, drawing strong opposition from residents concerned about property values, quality of life, and environmental impacts. The township previously enacted a six-month moratorium on new development proposals while drafting the zoning amendment. While no formal data center applications have been submitted, land acquisitions by firms like Mudiita Land Venture LLC and a joint venture of PPL Electric Corporation and Blackstone suggest potential future development.
Plains Township recently convened a public hearing to discuss a proposed amendment to its zoning code, aiming to establish an Energy and Technology Overlay District where data centers would be permitted as conditional uses. The hearing drew a large number of anxious residents who voiced significant opposition, citing concerns about potential impacts on property values, quality of life, and the environment. Residents like Sara McGarry and Theresa Sanchez shared personal stories about their homes, while Laura Bovee emphasized environmental rights guaranteed by the Pennsylvania Constitution.
Township Commissioner Dennis Condusta acknowledged the community's input, stating all comments would be considered. The township had previously enacted a six-month moratorium on new development proposals in April to facilitate the drafting of this zoning amendment. The proposed overlay would cover 592 acres, or 6.7% of the township, and include regulations for data centers regarding sustainability, water use, sound limits, and emergency plans.
Despite officials' assertions that no formal data center applications have been received, the article highlights several land acquisitions suggestive of impending development. Mudiita Land Venture LLC has purchased extensive acreage in Plains Township and Ransom Township, with an affiliated website (now offline) having advertised a hyperscale data center campus. Additionally, a joint venture between PPL Electric Corporation and Blackstone acquired over 400 acres in Jenkins and Plains townships, with PPL acknowledging plans for power generation to support data center campuses or other large-load users. These developments have fueled resident anxieties, despite Commissioner Condusta denying any formal knowledge or non-disclosure agreements with developers.