By MONIQUE HOWARD
The Sun
Residents raised concerns during the Winslow Township Committee meeting on June 9 about the wording of an ordinance that prohibits data centers in town.
Residents posed questions during the public hearing regarding the effectiveness of the ban, claiming its vagueness could lead to potential loopholes. Environmental concerns were also raised, including the quantity of water required to sustain a data center and how they can possibly increase homeowner electric bills.
Mayor Marie Lawrence requested that Township Solicitor Stuart Platt address the concerns. He explained that an ordinance can’t be created once a land-use application has been filed. Similar situations involving data centers have caused problems in other municipalities.
“The ordinance has to be placed,” Platt said. “The residents have to understand that there is an ordinance that prohibits data centers and similar types of uses throughout the entire township, redevelopment and non-redevelopment areas, as well as Pinelands and non-Pinelands areas.”
Platt also noted that two additional ordinances have been created that are similar to those adopted by Mantua Township. Both can be viewed on the May 26 Winslow committee agenda.
Platt also addressed what he said is misinformation circulating on social media regarding the committee’s response to the data center issue. He also dismissed claims that township officials had not acted proactively, clarifying that the township ordinance has already been adopted.
As requested by the mayor, the ordinance will be reevaluated to ensure it reflects the best interests of residents. Platt believes the ordinance is effective in its current form, but said he’s willing to make adjustments if necessary.
According to Platt, the township’s zoning officer has also reviewed the ordinance and said it would prevent a data center from being built under the guise of a warehouse.
“A zoning officer also understands that the ordinance that has been prepared has been done broadly and specifically as well,” Platt noted.
The solicitor reminded residents at the meeting that a ban on junkyards previously approved by the township is similar in approach to a data center.
“It’s really a matter of statutory construction and legislative drafting,” he added.
The next township committee meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23.
Monique Howard/ The Sun
George Turner shares his concerns with the committee.
