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Upper Moreland committee outlines process for a draft data center ordinance
Summary
Residents questioned data-center siting; Commissioner Kip McFatridge and Solicitor Sean Kilkenny said the township cannot bar data centers outright but will prepare a draft ordinance using regional model language, with public hearings and a 180-day review window.
Commissioner Kip McFatridge told residents the township cannot categorically exclude data centers but can regulate where they locate. "The Township is not permitted to exclude Data Centers; however, we can craft an ordinance determining locations and other permissible applications concerning data centers," McFatridge said.
The topic arose during public comment after Joan Pritchard and Phoebe Park expressed concerns about data centers and asked for updates on zoning. Solicitor Sean Kilkenny said his office is coordinating a draft ordinance and is referencing model language from Montgomery, Chester and Dauphin counties to prepare a proposal for review by the township.
Officials said the draft will be circulated for public input, advertised and considered at future Community Development Committee meetings, with comments taken from the public, the Advisory Planning Agency and the Montgomery County Planning Commission. The board indicated it has up to 180 days to review and consider any ordinance for approval.
