People pack Archbald auditorium for data center hearing

On Thursday, residents packed the Valley View High School auditorium in Archbald, Lackawanna County, for a public hearing concerning the proposed Project Green Mountain data center campus. The hearing focused on a conditional use application for the campus, which would feature seven two-story data centers situated east of the Casey Industrial Highway in a former quarry. The company behind Project Green Mountain issued a statement after the hearing, asserting its commitment to being a responsible community partner. It highlighted the proposed site's separation from residential areas and its potential to support the regional economy through job creation and other economic benefits. However, strong opposition emerged from community members, including Tamara Misewicz-Healey, co-founder of the Stop Archbald Data Centers group. Opponents voiced concerns about public health and quality of life, urging the borough to ensure proper zoning and responsible development. The hearing occurred amidst a recent leadership shakeup within Archbald Borough, where council members replaced several top officials. This change was reportedly driven by a majority of members who felt previous leadership was not adequately representing residents' best interests regarding such developments.