East Vincent Delays Data Center Ordinance Amid Urgent Concerns
UPDATE: East Vincent Township supervisors have just announced a significant delay in adopting a new ordinance to regulate data centers, following overwhelming public feedback and uncertainty about pending state legislation.
During a heated public hearing on September 18, 2023, township officials decided to postpone the ordinance’s adoption, aiming instead to improve it based on a flood of community input and consultant recommendations. Township solicitor Joe Clemente revealed that substantial feedback from residents, the East Vincent Advocacy group, and Sen. Katie Muth prompted this urgent reconsideration.
The decision to halt the process was underscored by the realization that House Bill 502, which could potentially limit local control over data centers, is not moving forward as quickly as previously thought. State Rep. Paul Friel emphasized that the bill has not yet been voted on, leaving local regulations in place for now.
However, Sen. Muth warned the gathering that the bill remains a priority for Governor Josh Shapiro, which could expedite its passage. “This bill could get adopted tomorrow,” Muth stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
This news led supervisors Ed Dracup, Craig Damon, and Mark Brancato to cancel the scheduled vote for the evening, a move that has left many community members anxious about the future of the proposed data center on the former Pennhurst site.
Residents were vocal during the public hearing, stressing the need for further protections concerning health and environmental impacts. “We must keep our eye on this and maintain a tight schedule,” urged Christine McNeil of East Vincent Advocacy. “This ordinance needs to be better.”
Discussions regarding the data center have been ongoing since May, with significant public engagement. A special town hall meeting on September 10 revealed plans for the site, including controversial proposals like a tire-burning plant, which Township Manager Robert A. Zienkowski confirmed would not move forward.
The planning commission had already voted against recommending the proposed ordinance on September 16, following a marathon town hall meeting where residents expressed their concerns for over three hours.
Clemente explained that the supervisors have received new information that could enhance the draft ordinance, including a comprehensive 40-page document from East Vincent Advocacy, insights from a water consultant, and contributions from Muth’s office. “We need to incorporate these suggestions and send it back to the planning commission,” he stated, highlighting the complexity of revising the ordinance.
As the township navigates this critical juncture, the potential for a new data center raises urgent questions for residents. The community is particularly concerned about the environmental implications, noise pollution, and the adequacy of emergency response measures. Spring City Mayor Adam Alberico, also a firefighter, insisted that any developer should cover the costs of necessary emergency training and equipment.
With plans for a data center sketch already submitted by Derek Strine of Pennhurst Properties, pressure mounts on the township. If an official site plan is presented before the new zoning regulations are adopted, existing zoning could dictate the development parameters, which has residents on edge.
Clemente indicated that a revised ordinance could take at least a month to be ready for advertisement and adoption, but the urgency for action remains palpable. The community’s strong advocacy has resonated, with Muth stating, “You have restored my faith in humanity,” as she acknowledged the residents’ dedication to protecting their environment.
As East Vincent Township grapples with these urgent issues, all eyes will be on the upcoming revisions and community engagement as they strive to create a more protective ordinance for the future.
