In a surprising turn of events, Mark Lopatofsky has stepped down as the Clinton Township Chairman amidst growing tensions over proposed data center developments in the area. His resignation highlights the ongoing controversies and community concerns regarding these infrastructural projects.
“I’m submitting my resignation to the board due to the fact that my wife … has had Parkinson’s for seven years,” Lopatofsky explained, drawing applause from the audience. However, he expressed his dissatisfaction, saying, “I’m tired of this. I don’t need it. I am resigning, and I’m sorry. Find somebody else … the name calling is crazy … this is not the Clinton Twp. I know.”
Lopatofsky’s decision comes as local citizens question his affiliations with the borough’s engineering firm amid Linde Corporation’s plans to construct a vast data center campus. Linde Corporation, an infrastructure-focused company situated in Pittston, intends to build on 682 acres of land near Route 247 and Flat Rock Road, close to the Susquehanna and Lackawanna county borders.
Community Concerns and Government Shifts
Residents, worried about the project’s impact, have formed groups like Save Browndale Mountain to oppose the development. Similar upheavals are seen in nearby regions, reflecting a pattern of governmental changes due to data center proposals. In Archbald, Lackawanna County, a nearly complete turnover in borough council has occurred, while in Clifton Township, a longtime supervisor was replaced by a candidate skeptical of such developments.
Details of the Data Center Plans
Linde’s project plans indicate each data center building will cover 118,000 square feet, akin to two NFL fields. It will include generator yards, substations, gas generation facilities, and a water treatment facility. Essential services will be provided by Pennsylvania American Water, the Lackawanna River Basin Sewer Authority, PPL Electric Utilities, and UGI Utilities.
Scrutiny on Engineering Ties
Before resigning, Lopatofsky faced scrutiny over his connection with Kiley Associates, the borough’s engineering firm. Resident Chris Fick inquired about whether Lopatofsky disclosed his relationship with the firm, to which he admitted, “I didn’t disclose it to the public.” Lopatofsky did inform the township’s solicitor about his son’s ownership in the firm.
Kiley Associates representatives confirmed no current projects with Linde, but both firms are expected to be involved as the data center project progresses, according to supervisor Brian Non.
Future Meetings and Hearings
Following Lopatofsky’s resignation, supervisors Non and Brad Bates will schedule an emergency meeting within a week to fill his seat. A public hearing for amending the township’s Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO) to include data centers is set for July 30 at 7 p.m. at the township municipal building. “They [Linde] have to present and tell us exactly what they’re doing,” interim-solicitor Ron Bugaj stated, highlighting the opportunity for public questions.
- Hearings for Linde Corporation’s preliminary land development plan are scheduled for August 3 and August 17 at 6:30 p.m.
- Supervisors will vote on meeting regulations on August 4 at 7 p.m., with changes accessible on the township’s website, including a 3-minute cap on public comments.
