08112026 Community Development Committee

The City of Bethlehem Council's Community Development Committee met on August 12, 2026, to discuss a proposed zoning ordinance amendment related to data centers. The presentation by city planning and zoning officials detailed the characteristics of data centers, their energy and water usage, and the specific zoning requirements being proposed, including increased setbacks, buffer yards, height limits, and environmental impact assessments. The ordinance would allow data centers only in industrial zones by special exception, requiring public hearings and various technical studies such as noise, thermal impact, and energy management plans. Committee members and public commenters raised questions about enforcement, water and energy impacts, building size limitations, and transparency measures. The committee voted 2-0 to refer the ordinance amendment to the City Planning Commission for further review before proceeding to full City Council for a public hearing and vote.