Judge rules against Project Hazelnut data center
Luzerne County Judge Lesa Gelb denied an appeal filed by NP Hazleton Holdings 1 LLC for its Project Hazelnut data center in Hazle Township. The developer had appealed the township supervisors' denial of land development approval, which was influenced by resident concerns over noise and property values. NP Hazleton retains options, including seeking a special exception from the Hazle Twp. Zoning Board or appealing to Commonwealth Court.
Luzerne County Judge Lesa Gelb has denied an appeal filed by NP Hazleton Holdings 1 LLC regarding its proposed Project Hazelnut data center in Hazle Township. The developer, an offshoot of NorthPoint Development, had sought to overturn the township supervisors' decision to deny land development approval for the project, which would include 15 data center buildings on 1,250 acres.
Judge Gelb's decision, released on May 26, indicated that NP Hazleton still has avenues to pursue approval. These include applying to the Hazle Township Zoning Board for a special exception hearing or challenging the validity of the township's zoning ordinance, which does not explicitly mention data centers but contains a 'safe harbor' provision for unmentioned uses.
Richard Williams, attorney for NP Hazleton, stated the company is considering its options, including an appeal to Commonwealth Court. The township supervisors had initially denied approval on November 14 after residents raised concerns about potential noise, lighting, property values, and overall quality of life. The supervisors, represented by attorney Donald Karpowich, believed these issues would be better addressed through a special exception hearing with the zoning board. Residents opposing the project were represented by attorney Jack Dean.