CHAMBERSBURG — Franklin County commissioners were presented with a draft ordinance establishing regulations for data centers, while also hearing public criticism of the sheriff’s agreement with federal immigration authorities.
Proposed data center ordinance
Planning Director Quentin Clapper and Solicitor Elliott Sulcove introduced a proposed amendment to the county’s Subdivision and Land Use Ordinance aimed at setting standards for future data center development.
The draft ordinance would require a 1,000-foot setback from streets. It would also require facilities to include a solar-ready roof and generate at least 25% of their power through on-site solar panels.
Additional provisions would establish noise limits, require dense landscape buffers and mandate a decommissioning bond covering 100% of the cost to dismantle and remediate a facility if it ceases operations.
Commissioners did not take action on the proposal at the meeting. The measure comes as local governments across the region evaluate how to address potential data center development and its impact on infrastructure and neighboring properties.
Residents criticize ICE agreement
During the same meeting, three residents addressed commissioners regarding Sheriff Benjamin Sites’ agreement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Chambersburg resident and former Borough Councilman Herb Dolaway expressed concern about the agreement’s financial and operational impact. He said time spent assisting federal law enforcement could reduce the availability of deputies for duties required under Pennsylvania law.
Dolaway also described what he said were emotional impacts within the community, including lawful permanent residents who have limited public activity out of fear of detention despite complying with immigration law.
Commissioners did not respond in detail during the meeting.
