Penn Forest Township held a second public meeting Monday night regarding zoning amendments for data centers.

As a large crowd was anticipated, the meeting was held at Penn’s Peak.

Ten more pages were added to the draft, including adding definitions and a new section on lighting and terms related to water resources.

The proposed amendment adds an incentive if a cooling system is used to reduce water usage to less than 10,000 gallons per day. This would allow an exemption from doing a full water feasibility study.

Control of light and glare was added to include height of light, diffusion, light fixtures must be fully shielded and light must be prevented from going up toward the sky.

A “visual impact plan” needs to be included with any application.

Nanci Sarcinello, of Sarcinello Planning and GIS Services explained, “This is to minimize the impact of light on the sky and neighboring properties.”

Performance standards regarding air quality and fire protection were also added.

Sound and vibration studies will need to be conducted by the applicant.

Resident Stacey Bruggemann, asked about a man-made sound barrier and how to make a complaint if needed.

Supervisor Vice Chairman Christian Batulovich responded, “Make a complaint to the township and we will look into it.”

A three-step process is required to determine that the water source can supply use and that it is sustainable All properties within 3,000 feet will need to be notified per the draft. If a well has flow or efficiency problems, the applicant must provide a supply of portable water to the property owner.

Evan Spencer asked, “Why not have a wireless cooling system?”

Sarcinello responded, “We are incentivizing the applicant to reduce water usage below a certain use.”

A zoning map indicating the data center overlay district was depicted in a draft map on 750 acres along Route 903 near Maury Road.

Township solicitor Tom Nanovic received approval to send the proposed zoning ordinance amendment to the township planning commission and county planning commission.

A public hearing is scheduled for Feb. 24. The location is to be determined.