Residents press county on data center impacts as Jefferson County drafts countywide SALDO

Public commenters at a Jefferson County commissioners meeting raised concerns about proposed data center development and potential environmental impacts, including water use, impervious-surface runoff and effects on high-value streams.

"Any impact studies yet?" asked Caleb Hayes, who said he has observed data center development around the country and urged the county to require environmental and watershed studies. Hayes told the board he was concerned about on-site water sourcing and whether a local municipal authority could supply sufficient water.

Karen Reed, a Brookville resident, said she helped collect a petition with 35 signatures that she planned to mail to Governor Josh Shapiro to urge "responsible data center development," and she voiced concerns about clear-cutting and effects on fisheries and streams.

County staff and commissioners said they are drafting a countywide subdivision and land development ordinance (SALDO) that would include guidance on data centers, solar farms and similar developments. "We currently do not have a countywide SALDO," Elise Gervance said; staff said some municipalities have their own SALDOs while others do not. Commissioners emphasized that under the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code boroughs and townships retain primary land-use authority and advised local governments not to delay: if a municipality needs protections now, it should act rather than wait for a countywide product.

Commissioners explained that any county action would likely be an ordinance and would require a board vote once the planning commission presents a proposed SALDO. They encouraged municipalities to borrow effective provisions from neighboring counties and suggested objective, manageable restrictions — setbacks, screening, impervious-area limits and parking standards — as potential tools that would be less likely to invite successful legal challenges than blanket moratoriums.

Staff said a public meeting to review the SALDO draft will be scheduled before formal adoption; residents interested in participating were invited to share contact information to receive meeting announcements. The board closed public comment and adjourned, noting the next meeting is July 14 at 10:30 a.m.