In a contentious decision that has sparked significant public outcry, the Archbald Borough Council has moved forward with a zoning overlay that permits the construction of data centers, despite widespread opposition from local residents. The meeting was marked by strong emotions, with residents filling the Borough Building to capacity and some left standing outside.
“Zoning is supposed to protect borough residents, not data park developers,” emphasized Sheri Skrutski, a resident of Archbald, as she spoke against the council’s decision.
Despite over an hour of passionate public comment urging a rejection of the ordinance, the council approved the measure. Council members Dave Moran, Francis Burke, Marie Andreoli, and Richard Guman voted in favor, while Laura Lewis and Erin Owen opposed it. John Shnipes III abstained due to a conflict of interest involving his family’s property.
Post-vote, a frustrated resident voiced, “You should be ashamed of yourselves,” reflecting the community’s discontent. The council members who supported the ordinance offered no explanations and declined press inquiries, with President Moran retreating to a private area.
A New Zoning Landscape
Solicitor James J. O’Connor clarified that a zoning overlay is an additional district layered on existing zones, allowing for new types of development, such as data centers, in designated areas. These centers can now be developed in conservation and residential zones near Business Route 6, as well as in industrial and commercial zones across the borough.
This decision comes amid multiple proposals for data center developments, making Archbald a focal point for such projects in Northeast Pennsylvania. Among the proposals listed on padatacenterproposals.com are:
- Archbald 25 Developer LLC’s plan for a 186-acre campus with several data center buildings.
- Project Boson’s redevelopment of a junkyard into a data center on Eynon Jermyn Road.
- Archbald I LLC’s ambitious plan for 22 data center buildings across two campuses.
- Wildcat Ridge AI Data Center Campus’s proposal for a $2.1 billion project on nearly 400 acres.
Critics argue that the overlay benefits developers over residents. Kayleigh Cornell of the Archbald Neighborhood Association stated, “The amendment in front of you today was dictated by private landowners and developers, not by the residents of Archbald.”
Compliance Concerns Raised
Erin Owen’s attempt to halt the meeting due to safety concerns about overcrowding was unsuccessful. She criticized the council for prioritizing the meeting over residents’ safety, standing in solidarity with the public throughout.
Residents, including Madonna Munley and Sarah Gabriel, questioned the choice of venue, citing inadequate space for public attendance. Melissa Melewsky, Media Law Counsel for the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association, suggested the council might have breached the Sunshine Act by not accommodating the public appropriately.
A Second Chance at a Vote
The council’s initial attempt to pass the zoning overlay on October 3 failed due to lack of support. In response, residents proposed their own ordinance aimed at regulating data centers more strictly. Despite these efforts, the council did not consider the alternative ordinance.
Community Concerns Over Future Impacts
Residents expressed concerns about environmental and community impacts, with Megan Farrell highlighting existing habitat loss and potential ecological consequences. Carolyn Mizanty questioned the long-term viability of living near large data centers.
Amy Swingle raised questions about the future of data centers, considering technological advancements that could render them obsolete. Justin Healey warned of the permanent changes data centers would bring, urging the council to support community interests over corporate developments.
