The Upper Macungie Township Board of Supervisors voted at its Dec. 4, 2025, meeting to authorize the township manager to send a letter to state Sen. Jarrett Coleman, R-16th, opposing Pennsylvania Senate Bill 939, citing concerns the proposed legislation would usurp local municipal zoning control.

Senate Bill 939, currently pending in Harrisburg, would limit the ability of municipalities to regulate certain high-impact data centers through local zoning and land development ordinances.

Township officials said the bill is aimed at fast-tracking large data centers – specifically those of 50 megawatts or greater – by reducing or eliminating local oversight related to setbacks and other zoning requirements.

Board members emphasized zoning is a local issue and should remain under municipal control.

Officials noted municipalities already have adequate tools under the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code to evaluate and regulate development applications.

During discussion, commissioners expressed concern recently proposed local zoning amendments could be undermined if the bill were to pass.

Residents in attendance were encouraged to contact their state legislators to voice support for maintaining local zoning authority.

Resident Scott Hughes asked whether similar legislation has been enacted in other states, but township officials said they were not aware of comparable measures elsewhere.

They reiterated the intent of Senate Bill 939 appears to be to encourage data center development by loosening local regulations.

Following the discussion, the board unanimously approved the motion to authorize the township manager to send a letter to Coleman formally opposing Senate Bill 939.