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Council bans data centers boroughwide, citing water and energy concerns
Summary
Ordinance 2026-04 was adopted to add 'Data Center' to zoning definitions and to list data centers as a prohibited use in all borough zones, with the council citing potential impacts on water, electricity and community character.
The Borough Council on April 7 adopted Ordinance 2026-04 to amend the zoning code and designate data centers as a non-permitted use in all zones within the borough.
The ordinance defines "Data Center" broadly to include facilities for storage, management and processing of digital data and accessory components such as transformers, generators and redundant power supplies. Council text cites state-level findings and preliminary studies noting that large-scale data centers can use millions of gallons of water per day and significant electrical capacity, and it states concerns about impacts on groundwater, community character and municipal resources.
The ordinance directs the borough clerk to notify the Warren County Planning Board and the local land use board for review and will take effect immediately upon final passage and publication.
