The East Deer commissioners are exploring how they can prepare for a data center if one is proposed in the township.

Commissioner Jake Gigler raised the issue with his fellow commissioners given the proliferation of data centers nationwide and public concerns associated with them.

Data centers are digital information storage facilities that wield vast computing power needed to develop technology such as artificial intelligence.

Gigler suggested the commissioners consider crafting and approving an ordinance to give the township some regulatory power if a data center is proposed in the township.

The development of a massive data center a few miles away at the site of a former power plant in Springdale has resulted in a backlash from residents.

The concerns included electricity usage and its effect on residential electrical costs, noise and water usage.

Although the township is small with limited room for development, Gigler thinks there are some locations in the township’s industrialized area along the Allegheny River that could lure a data center developer.

Solicitor Craig Alexander said, “I think we should look at it because you can put a data center, big or small, anywhere and I think it doesn’t hurt to have (an ordinance) on the books.”

Gigler obtained a copy of a data center ordinance recently approved by the Gilpin Township supervisors which, he said, the township could use as a model.

There were no objections to Gigler’s suggestion from his fellow supervisors.

“We’re all in agreement that we should do something to protect ourselves,” said Commissioners Vice Chairman Rick Stoneburner.

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