York County Approves Ordinances for Regulated Data Centers

Residents express concerns over potential environmental impact, but officials say state law requires identifying suitable sites.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:06pm

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A conceptual studio still life photograph featuring a collection of sleek, metallic data server components arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conveying the abstract corporate strategy behind data center development.The approval of new data center regulations in York County aims to balance economic growth with environmental concerns.York Today

East Manchester Township supervisors in York County, Pennsylvania have approved two ordinances that allow for the construction of data centers, despite opposition from neighbors who are concerned about the potential harm to wildlife and the surrounding environment. Township leaders stated that state law required them to identify a suitable location for potential data centers, even though they acknowledged the project's unpopularity. It was noted that the approval of these ordinances does not mean there are active plans to build any data centers at this time.

Why it matters

The approval of these data center ordinances in York County highlights the ongoing tension between local communities and the growing demand for data infrastructure. While data centers can bring economic benefits, residents are often concerned about the environmental impact on their neighborhoods. This case demonstrates the challenges local governments face in balancing state requirements with community concerns.

The details

The two ordinances approved by East Manchester Township supervisors establish regulations for the construction and operation of data centers. These include requirements for screening, noise control, and environmental impact assessments. During the public hearing, neighbors expressed opposition to the move, citing concerns about the potential harm to wildlife and the surrounding environment. Township leaders responded by stating that state law required them to identify a suitable location for potential data centers, even though they acknowledged the project's unpopularity.

  • The ordinances were approved by East Manchester Township supervisors on April 9, 2026.

The players

East Manchester Township

A township in York County, Pennsylvania that approved ordinances allowing for the construction of data centers.

York County Supervisors

The local government officials in York County, Pennsylvania who approved the data center ordinances.

Neighbors

Residents of East Manchester Township who expressed opposition to the data center ordinances during the public hearing, citing concerns about the potential environmental impact.

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What they’re saying

“State law required them to identify a suitable location for potential data centers, even though they acknowledged the project's unpopularity.”

— Township Leaders

What’s next

The township will now work to implement the new data center regulations and monitor any future proposals for data center development in the area.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges local communities face in balancing economic development needs with environmental concerns. While data centers can bring jobs and tax revenue, their potential impact on the surrounding environment remains a point of contention that local governments must navigate carefully.