Lancaster Development News

Lancaster City Council Tables Data Center Zoning Ordinance Amidst Public Concerns and Language Clarity Issues

Lancaster City Council held a public hearing on a proposed zoning ordinance amendment to regulate data centers. The amendment aimed to define data centers as a distinct land use, establish specific zoning districts for them, and impose development standards related to noise, energy, water, waste, thermal output, and emergency response. Key discussions revolved around the choice between a special exception process (handled by the Zoning Hearing Board) and a conditional use process (handled by City Council), with staff recommending the special exception route due to the Zoning Hearing Board's expertise and the city's ability to act as a party to proceedings. The proposed ordinance restricted data centers to the suburban manufacturing (SM) zone, encompassing 16 properties, and introduced various performance-based standards. Public testimony expressed significant concerns regarding noise, environmental impact, water usage, job creation, and the potential for data centers to enable mass surveillance and other negative societal consequences. A major point of contention was section 6B, a "grandfathering" clause for two existing data center projects, leading to debate about its clarity and legal implications. Due to concerns about the clarity of section 6B and the absence of the city solicitor, the council voted to table the ordinance to their next meeting for further clarification.