In a decisive move, Clifton Township Supervisors have approved a controversial settlement to scale back the proposed data center campus. Despite reducing the project’s size, the agreement allows the campus buildings to exceed current zoning height limits, stirring concerns among local residents.
During a recent meeting, 24 residents voiced their opposition to the settlement, questioning the timing and transparency of the decision. “This settlement agreement affects zoning only,” noted Chair Jill Zwindle, clarifying that the approval does not expedite the project’s development process. “This does not stop the process for them having to go through all land development … it doesn’t mean they pour concrete tomorrow,” she said.
The development, known as “Project Gold,” is planned by 1778 Rich Pike LLC and is set to span properties between Clifton and Covington townships, along Route 380. Residents expressed dissatisfaction with the meeting’s scheduling, which coincided with a holiday weekend and preceding a change in the township’s leadership.
Matthew Chase, a Clifton resident, criticized the meeting’s timing, advocating for greater public engagement. “Give the public time to read these settlements, to read these proposals, give the public time to comment,” he urged during the meeting, holding a “No AI” sign.
Settlement Details
The settlement affects three specific properties, all owned by 1778 Rich Pike LLC, and includes several conditions:
- Data centers will only occupy land zoned for industrial use.
- Plans to use nuclear or cycle gas-fired generation have been dropped.
- Sewage and wastewater treatment must occur outside of Clifton Township.
- Environmental, traffic, and community impact studies are required.
- Water storage tanks are limited to 85 feet in height.
- Sound standards have been slightly reduced by two decibels.
Notably, the settlement permits the data center buildings to reach 65 feet, with additional rooftop structures allowed to extend the height to 80 feet, surpassing the previous zoning cap of 35 feet. Some residents, like June Ejk, voiced their disapproval of the height increase, arguing it violates township ordinances.
Despite residents’ appeals, the supervisors approved the settlement, with ongoing litigation still pending. Solicitor Geoffrey Worthington emphasized that the approval does not conclude the legal challenges.
Community Concerns
Residents like Howard Ives, whose property is adjacent to the planned development, are concerned about the project’s impact on their property values and local environment. “My family owns 150 acres. I’m fourth generation,” Ives stated, expressing his determination to continue opposing the project.
The settlement has been perceived by many as undermining the local zoning board’s previous decisions. Paula Danchak, a resident, felt the settlement dismissed the board’s efforts, while Gretchen Bentler, another neighbor, publicly criticized local property owner Joseph Occhippinti for his role in the project.
As the meeting concluded, incoming supervisor Matt Gruenloh expressed his personal view on the matter, stating, “I understand that what you did is legal. I just don’t think it was appropriate.”
The community remains divided, with plans for further legal actions by residents like June Ejk, who are determined to challenge the supervisors’ decision in court.
