{"id":310120,"date":"2026-10-19T22:04:08","date_gmt":"2026-10-19T22:04:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/310120\/"},"modified":"2026-10-19T22:04:08","modified_gmt":"2026-10-19T22:04:08","slug":"archbald-council-set-to-vote-on-wildcat-ridge-data-center-campus-this-week","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/310120\/","title":{"rendered":"Archbald council set to vote on Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus this week"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Archbald Borough Council will likely decide the future of the controversial Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus on Wednesday.\n<\/p>\n<p>Council is slated to vote during its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.archbaldpa.gov\/government\/agendas_minutes.php\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">regular meeting<\/a> at 6 p.m. Wednesday on Brooklyn-based Cornell Realty Management LLC\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/01\/18\/wildcat-ridge-data-center-in-archbald-to-use-huge-amounts-of-power-water\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">conditional use application<\/a> to develop 14 data centers and accompanying infrastructure above Business Route 6 and extending up Route 247, or Wildcat Road.\n<\/p>\n<p>The decision will be the culmination of a nearly yearlong process that began in December and has encompassed nine public hearings since January including about 26 hours of testimony and cross-examination. Proceedings have included a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/04\/09\/wildcat-ridge-data-center-launches-campaign-touting-finances-questioning-foes\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">poorly received public relations campaign<\/a>, attempts to remove <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/09\/08\/developer-wants-all-archbald-council-members-removed-from-data-center-hearings\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">all seven<\/a> council members from voting on the campus over <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/08\/16\/data-center-developers-legal-challenge-pits-bias-against-local-government\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">allegations of bias<\/a>, criticism from Archbald Borough\u2019s own noise expert, and a public health assessment on Wildcat Ridge\u2019s nearly 600 backup diesel generators. The assessment led to an ongoing $165,000 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/09\/16\/facts-science-evidence-commissioners-ok-data-center-health-impact-study\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">countywide health impact study<\/a> targeting the cumulative effects of data centers and power plants.\n<\/p>\n<p>Spanning 574.2 mountainside acres above the borough\u2019s Eynon and Sturges sections, Wildcat Ridge is the largest-proposed data center campus in Lackawanna County with the highest water demands and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/08\/21\/project-gold-data-center-campus-in-north-pocono-radically-changes-plans\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">second-largest<\/a> electricity demands. The utility demands as well as concerns over <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/07\/14\/wildcat-ridge-data-center-campus-hearing-generates-more-noise-concerns\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">noise<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/07\/12\/worse-than-coal-data-centers-raise-new-local-concerns-during-heat-waves\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">air pollution<\/a> from backup generators have fueled contention.\n<\/p>\n<p>Midvalley residents and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/01\/29\/county-state-legislators-criticize-proposed-archbald-data-centers\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">officials<\/a> have opposed the project, including Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan, county Controller Gary DiBileo, state Rep. Kyle Mullins, D-112, Blakely and Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan expresses his concerns about proposed...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0130-02.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan expresses his concerns about proposed data centers during the Archbald Borough Council\u2019s public hearing at Valley View High School on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Lackawanna County controller and president of the Keyser Valley Neighborhood...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0130-03-1.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Lackawanna County controller and president of the Keyser Valley Neighborhood Association Gary DiBileo asks the crowd to raise their hand if they oppose data centers during the Archbald Borough Council\u2019s public hearing regarding the proposed Wildcat Ridge campus at Valley View High School on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti and Lackawanna County Controller Gary DiBileo,...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0617-06.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti and Lackawanna County Controller Gary DiBileo, left, attend a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, June 15, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Community members hold up \u201cNo Data Center\u201d signs during the...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0415-02.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Community members hold up \u201cNo Data Center\u201d signs during the public hearing regarding the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Community members listen to Attorney Edmund Campbell ask acoustical consultant...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCATDATA-051426-01.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Community members listen to Attorney Edmund Campbell ask acoustical consultant Caitlin Ormsbee about the noise pollution study conducted for the proposed Wildcat Ridge data center campus during the public hearing at Valley View High School in Archbald on Thursday, May 14, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"An attendee yells as he is removed for interrupting a...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-VALLEYVIEWDATA-0708-06.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>An attendee yells as he is removed for interrupting a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 6, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"An attendee holds a sign reading \u201cDENY\u201d during a public...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0617-10.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>An attendee holds a sign reading \u201cDENY\u201d during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, June 15, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Megan Farrell, left, sells \u201cNo Data Centers\u201d signs and t-shirts...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0415-04.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Megan Farrell, left, sells \u201cNo Data Centers\u201d signs and t-shirts before the public hearing regarding the Wildcat Ridge Date Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald on Monday, April 13, 2026. Proceeds of the items go to a fund to help to pay for legal fees for residents to oppose Archbald\u2019s data center zoning. Farrell believes that a data center would not be beneficial to the community and would put stress on natural resources.  (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Community members enter the auditorium at Valley View High School...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0415-05.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Community members enter the auditorium at Valley View High School for the public hearing regarding the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"An attendee holds up a sign that reads \u201cDENY\u201d during...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-VALLEYVIEWDATA-0708-01.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>An attendee holds up a sign that reads \u201cDENY\u201d during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 6, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"A woman holds up a \u201cNO DATA CENTERS\u201d sign during...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0312-5-rotated-1.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A woman holds up a \u201cNO DATA CENTERS\u201d sign during a public hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at the Valley View High School in Archbald on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. (FRANK WILKES LESNEFSKY \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"A sign reading \u201cNO DATA CENTERS\u201d leans against a row...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0714-10.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A sign reading \u201cNO DATA CENTERS\u201d leans against a row of auditorium chairs during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 13, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"People listen to the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0911-09.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>People listen to the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"People hold up signs as they listen. to the hearing...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0911-05.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>People hold up signs as they listen. to the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"An attendee holds up a sign reading \u201cDENY\u201d during a...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0806-10.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>An attendee holds up a sign reading \u201cDENY\u201d during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald resident David Polansky hands out \u201cNO DATA CENTER\u201d signs...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0312-3-rotated-1.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald resident David Polansky hands out \u201cNO DATA CENTER\u201d signs outside the Valley View High School in Archbald on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Polansky said he was handing out his third batch of 500 signs.<br \/>\n(FRANK WILKES LESNEFSKY \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p>Show Caption<\/p>\n<p>1 of 16<\/p>\n<p>Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan expresses his concerns about proposed data centers during the Archbald Borough Council\u2019s public hearing at Valley View High School on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#\" class=\"icon-enlarge mng-gallery-fullscreen-expand\" aria-label=\"Expand fullscreen slideshow\">Expand<\/a><\/p>\n<p>A project attorney previously offered Archbald a community benefits agreement worth $17 million if all 14 data centers go online. The campus has touted more than $40 million of collective tax revenue annually for the borough, the Valley View School District and Lackawanna County.\n<\/p>\n<p>Council will meet at the Borough Building, 400 Church St., Archbald. Council President Louis Rapoch anticipates holding the meeting in the third-floor gymnasium due to the expected crowd.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Community members fill the auditorium for the public hearing regarding...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0415-06.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Community members fill the auditorium for the public hearing regarding the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Community members gather at Valley View High School for the...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0130-04.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Community members gather at Valley View High School for the Archbald Borough Council\u2019s public hearing on a conditional use application for the Wildcat Ridge Data Center campus Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Residents filled the Valley View High School auditorium in Archbald...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0312-2-rotated-1.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Residents filled the Valley View High School auditorium in Archbald for a public hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. (FRANK WILKES LESNEFSKY \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"A public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0714-08.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 13, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"A public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0806-01.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus is held at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"A public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-VALLEYVIEWDATA-0708-08.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 6, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p>Show Caption<\/p>\n<p>1 of 6<\/p>\n<p>Community members fill the auditorium for the public hearing regarding the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#\" class=\"icon-enlarge mng-gallery-fullscreen-expand\" aria-label=\"Expand fullscreen slideshow\">Expand<\/a><br \/>\nWhat happens this week?<\/p>\n<p>Council opened a 45-day window to vote on Wildcat Ridge\u2019s application after it concluded its ninth and final hearing Sept. 9. Borough Solicitor Jay O\u2019Connor and Rapoch confirmed they expect council to vote Wednesday.<\/p>\n<p>The vote is slated to occur at the borough\u2019s regular monthly meeting, which will operate normally and not like a public hearing. Residents should have an additional opportunity to comment on the project though, as municipal meetings allow public comment on agenda items prior to council taking action.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald resident Amy Swingle speaks during the hearing on the...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0911-07.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald resident Amy Swingle speaks during the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Jermyn resident John Kura speaks during the hearing on the...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0911-03.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Jermyn resident John Kura speaks during the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald resident Kelsey Wargo, foreground, addresses Archbald borough officials during...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0714-01.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald resident Kelsey Wargo, foreground, addresses Archbald borough officials during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 13, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald resident Amy Gaughan speaks during the hearing on the...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0911-04.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald resident Amy Gaughan speaks during the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald councilmembers listen to a borough resident speak during the...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0911-01.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald councilmembers listen to a borough resident speak during the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p>Show Caption<\/p>\n<p>1 of 5<\/p>\n<p>Archbald resident Amy Swingle speaks during the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#\" class=\"icon-enlarge mng-gallery-fullscreen-expand\" aria-label=\"Expand fullscreen slideshow\">Expand<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Wildcat Ridge\u2019s attorneys from Reed Smith LLP of Pittsburgh have filed motions calling for the recusal of all seven council members from deciding on Wildcat Ridge\u2019s application over allegations of bias. Six of the seven council members subsequently signed and submitted notarized affidavits during the final hearing Sept. 9 averring they can decide on the application fairly and impartially. Council Vice President Joseph Altier III and council members Larry Marchetti, Madonna Munley, Lisa Osborne, Erin Owen and Larry West signed the affidavits. Rapoch, who was absent during the hearing, said in a text Monday he has not signed an affidavit but plans to vote Wednesday.\n<\/p>\n<p>Council will then vote whether to approve Wildcat Ridge\u2019s application. Should the abstention or absence of any\u00a0of the seven council members lead to a tie vote, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.palegis.us\/statutes\/consolidated\/view-statute?txtType=HTM&amp;ttl=08&amp;div=0&amp;chpt=10&amp;sctn=3&amp;subsctn=0\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">the mayor can cast the deciding vote<\/a>.\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald councilmembers listen to borough residents speak during the hearing...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0911-06.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald councilmembers listen to borough residents speak during the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald Borough Council Vice President Joseph Altier whispers to President...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0415-03.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald Borough Council Vice President Joseph Altier whispers to President Louis Rapoch during the public hearing regarding the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Community members and borough councilmembers listen to Attorney Edmund Campbell...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCATDATA-051426-02.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Community members and borough councilmembers listen to Attorney Edmund Campbell ask acoustical consultant Caitlin Ormsbee questions about the noise pollution study conducted for the proposed Wildcat Ridge data center campus during the public hearing at Valley View High School in Archbald on Thursday, May 14, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Councilwoman Erin Owen asks Attorney Edmund Campbell a question during...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0617-04.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Councilwoman Erin Owen asks Attorney Edmund Campbell a question during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, June 15, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald borough officials listen during a public hearing on the...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0617-01.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald borough officials listen during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, June 15, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Council Member Larry Marchetti covers his face with his hand...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-VALLEYVIEWDATA-0708-03.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Council Member Larry Marchetti covers his face with his hand during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 6, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Solicitor James O\u2019Connor speaks during the Archbald Borough Council\u2019s public...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0130-01.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Solicitor James O\u2019Connor speaks during the Archbald Borough Council\u2019s public hearing regarding a conditional use application for the Wildcat Ridge Data Center campus at Valley View High School on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p>Show Caption<\/p>\n<p>1 of 7<\/p>\n<p>Archbald councilmembers listen to borough residents speak during the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#\" class=\"icon-enlarge mng-gallery-fullscreen-expand\" aria-label=\"Expand fullscreen slideshow\">Expand<\/a><br \/>\nWhere did Wildcat Ridge originate?<\/p>\n<p>Wildcat Ridge was Archbald\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2025\/03\/06\/developer-proposes-massive-data-center-campus-in-archbald-along-business-route-6-wildcat-road\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">introduction to data centers<\/a>. Representatives approached council during a January 2025 work session with a pitch for a $2.1 billion campus. Since then, the borough has received applications for 37 more data centers across five projects, totaling 51 with Wildcat Ridge. A data center developer also applied for a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/09\/30\/essential-energy-stop-archbald-data-centers-continue-power-plant-debate\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">400-megawatt Essential Energy LLC<\/a> natural gas power plant on Eynon Jermyn Road. Other data center developers have either <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/08\/20\/data-center-warehouse-developer-buys-more-land-in-archbald-for-16-1m\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">purchased<\/a> or<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/09\/25\/developer-applies-for-200000-square-foot-data-center-in-jessup\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"> entered into agreements to purchase<\/a> land throughout the Archbald section of the Valley View Business Park, indicating more proposals are likely.\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<p>Former Archbald council members adopted a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2025\/09\/29\/archbald-residents-push-back-against-proposed-data-center-zoning\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">widely opposed<\/a> zoning amendment in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2025\/11\/24\/archbald-council-passes-data-center-zoning-ordinance-in-divided-vote\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">November 2025<\/a> that applied restrictions on data centers while limiting them to overlay districts throughout the borough. Although the land is zoned for residential and conservation uses, Wildcat Ridge\u2019s overlay district conditionally allows data centers across the wooded mountainside.<\/p>\n<p>Cornell Realty Management, 347 Flushing Ave., Suite 800, Brooklyn, subsequently applied Dec. 15 when it submitted a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/scl\/fi\/ht8fk3n8jbb7kkqb7rpoi\/Wildcat-RidgeData-Ctr-Campus-Archbald-Condl-Use-App.pdf?rlkey=np6383aiiulotmyl25mtdp77t&amp;e=2&amp;st=b8fyoapf&amp;dl=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\">777-page conditional use application<\/a> for Wildcat Ridge, signed by managing partner Isaac Hager.\n<\/p>\n<p>Cornell Realty Management proposes to build 14 two-story data centers, each 80 feet tall with 202,340-square-foot footprints, backed up by 588 diesel generators. The campus would have two <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/03\/24\/ppl-to-hold-open-house-on-large-midvalley-infrastructure-project\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">substations<\/a> \u2014 a 326,000-square-foot primary user substation and a 69,000-square-foot secondary user substation \u2014 and its data centers would be topped by 840 rooftop chillers and 168 pieces of HVAC equipment, according to testimony and plans for the project.\n<\/p>\n<p>Wildcat Ridge plans to use 1.6 gigawatts of electricity, or 1,600 megawatts. It would also use an average of 598,000 gallons of water per day with a summertime peak of just over 3.3 million gallons daily \u2014 the equivalent of filling about five Olympic-sized swimming pools daily. The campus would <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/01\/29\/county-state-legislators-criticize-proposed-archbald-data-centers\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">draw<\/a> its cooling water from Pennsylvania American Water\u2019s Lake Scranton system. The developer previously discussed tapping water from the mines below, an unprecedented method that would require permitting and studies.<\/p>\n<p>In addition to its data centers, Cornell Realty proposes 316,000 square feet of commercial space, including a 50,000-square-foot grocery store with 1,800 square feet of retail space; two four-story, 85,000-square-foot buildings, one mixed use and the other an office; and a 96,000-square-foot surface parking lot. During its first public hearing, a representative for the campus hinted at a major grocery store chain, saying it could include \u201cTrader Joe\u2019s, or something like that,\u201d though the data center development is not contingent on retail development.<\/p>\n<p>What happened at Wildcat Ridge\u2019s hearings?<\/p>\n<p>Archbald held its initial public hearing Jan. 28, with roughly one hearing per month through September. The proceedings have included:<\/p>\n<p>\u2022\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/01\/29\/county-state-legislators-criticize-proposed-archbald-data-centers\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Conditional-use compliance<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>\u2022\u00a0An \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/03\/11\/wildcat-ridge-data-center-campus-faces-major-opposition-in-archbald\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">adiabatic cooling system<\/a>\u201d for the campus that would use both air and water to cool the computer hardware inside the data centers.<\/p>\n<p>\u2022 A community impact analysis touting tens of millions of dollars in annual tax revenue and 1,280 new jobs.\n<\/p>\n<p>\u2022\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/04\/14\/largest-crowd-yet-shows-up-to-oppose-archbald-data-centers\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Information<\/a> on the campus\u2019s proposed <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/06\/16\/wildcat-ridge-data-center-concludes-testimony-turning-floor-over-to-residents\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">traffic<\/a> along Business Route 6 and Wildcat Road.\n<\/p>\n<p>\u2022\u00a0A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/05\/15\/opponents-sound-off-on-wildcat-ridge-data-center-campus-noise-projections\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">noise study<\/a> modeling how loud the data center campus would be at 19 locations in its vicinity.\n<\/p>\n<p>\u2022\u00a0A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/07\/07\/stop-archbald-data-centers-makes-case-against-proposed-wildcat-ridge-campus\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">public health assessment<\/a> commissioned by Stop Archbald Data Centers that estimated Wildcat Ridge\u2019s generators could produce countywide health damages ranging from $3.3 million to $124 million annually, depending on the technology in the generators and how long the generators are actually running.\n<\/p>\n<p>\u2022\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/07\/14\/wildcat-ridge-data-center-campus-hearing-generates-more-noise-concerns\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Testimony<\/a> from Archbald\u2019s own sound expert, J. Michael Spencer of JMS Acoustics LLC in Bethlehem, who acknowledged that even though Wildcat Ridge demonstrated it would comply with Archbald\u2019s noise regulations, \u201cWe\u2019re talking about an increase in sound levels, though, that in my professional opinion, is unreasonable for the residents. \u2026 I cannot think of one scenario in my entire 30-year career of consulting where I had that kind of a level of (noise) increase on a project.\u201d Wildcat Ridge then purchased three properties close to the proposed campus: 420 Wildcat Road, 430 Wildcat Road and 200 Woodlands Edge Drive. The homes appeared in the sound study that showed the campus\u2019s noise impacts.\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Engineer Thomas M. Muscenti, left, is cross-examined during a public...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0806-02.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Engineer Thomas M. Muscenti, left, is cross-examined during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026 (ISAAC DIAZ \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus project manager AJ Magnotta (left)...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-01.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus project manager AJ Magnotta (left) and attorney Edmund J. Campbell Jr. speak during a public hearing at the Valley View High School in Archbald on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. (FRANK WILKES LESNEFSKY \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Acoustical Consultant Caitlin Ormsbee answers questions during the hearing regarding...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCATDATA-051426-03.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Acoustical Consultant Caitlin Ormsbee answers questions during the hearing regarding the proposed Wildcat Ridge data center campus at Valley View High School in Archbald on Thursday, May 14, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Cornell Realty Management Attorney Edmund J. Campbell Jr., left, looks...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0312-8-rotated-1.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Cornell Realty Management Attorney Edmund J. Campbell Jr., left, looks on as data center consultant Ben Mitten speaks during a public hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the Valley View High School in Archbald. (FRANK WILKES LESNEFSKY \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus representatives look on during a...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0516-01-rotated-1.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus representatives look on during a conditional use hearing at the Valley View High School auditorium in Archbald on Thursday, May 14, 2026. (FRANK WILKES LESNEFSKY \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald borough officials discuss the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0617-08.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald borough officials discuss the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus during a public hearing at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, June 15, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Edmund Campbell, right, discusses the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0617-02.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Edmund Campbell, right, discusses the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus with Archbald borough officials during a public hearing at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, June 15, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Megan S. Haines, representing the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-VALLEYVIEWDATA-0708-07.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Megan S. Haines, representing the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus, stands at a podium as project representatives listen during a public hearing at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 6, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Megan S. Haines, representing the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0806-04.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Megan S. Haines, representing the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus, listens to a question during a public hearing at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Engineer Thomas M. Muscenti, left, answers a question as Attorney...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0806-09.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Engineer Thomas M. Muscenti, left, answers a question as Attorney Lucas Liben, right, covers his face with his hand during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Lucas Liben looks on during the hearing on the...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0911-08.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Lucas Liben looks on during the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Planning consultant Thomas Shepstone testifies on behalf of the Wildcat...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0312-9-rotated-1.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Planning consultant Thomas Shepstone testifies on behalf of the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus during a public hearing at the Valley View High School in Archbald on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. (FRANK WILKES LESNEFSKY \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p>Show Caption<\/p>\n<p>1 of 12<\/p>\n<p>Engineer Thomas M. Muscenti, left, is cross-examined during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026 (ISAAC DIAZ \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#\" class=\"icon-enlarge mng-gallery-fullscreen-expand\" aria-label=\"Expand fullscreen slideshow\">Expand<\/a><\/p>\n<p>In April, Wildcat Ridge launched a public relations campaign, mailing booklets to borough homes and launching a website. The campaign touted the economic benefits of the proposed campus while questioning its opponents\u2019 motives. A \u201cPoints to Ponder\u201d webpage asked \u201cThe concerns of many residents are understandable, but is it possible that a few of the more vocal data center opponents are being supported by interests from outside the area? Are a certain few people making the most noise, trying to drown out the real feelings of the residents who really want what is best for the entire community?\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The campaign prompted significant backlash. Residents who attended the next public hearing marched to the stage to place mailers in a box labeled \u201cWildcat Ridge Propaganda Mailer Return.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Community members deposit booklets Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus developers...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0415-07.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Community members deposit booklets Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus developers mailed to them during the public hearing regarding the proposed project at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Edmund Campbell, L&amp;V Engineering\u2019s Jerilyn Luben, and Wildcat Ridge...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0415-09.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Edmund Campbell, L&amp;V Engineering\u2019s Jerilyn Luben, and Wildcat Ridge Project Manager AJ Magnotta answer questions regarding the traffic study they presented during the public hearing at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"A box of booklets community members left near the stage...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0415-08.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A box of booklets community members left near the stage in the auditorium at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p>Show Caption<\/p>\n<p>1 of 3<\/p>\n<p>Community members deposit booklets Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus developers mailed to them during the public hearing regarding the proposed project at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#\" class=\"icon-enlarge mng-gallery-fullscreen-expand\" aria-label=\"Expand fullscreen slideshow\">Expand<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The Valley View School District gained party status <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/06\/16\/wildcat-ridge-data-center-concludes-testimony-turning-floor-over-to-residents\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">in June<\/a>, giving the district standing to cross-examine witnesses and address Wildcat Ridge\u2019s impacts on students and faculty.<\/p>\n<p>The final hearing concluded last month with closing arguments from Wildcat Ridge attorney Edmund J. Campbell Jr. of King of Prussia-based Campbell Rocco Law; attorney Justin Richards of Elliott Greenleaf PC in Wilkes-Barre, representing Stop Archbald Data Centers members; and Stop Archbald Data Centers co-founder Tamara Misewicz-Healey, who gained party status in January despite an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/2026\/01\/29\/county-state-legislators-criticize-proposed-archbald-data-centers\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">objection<\/a> from Campbell, who argued she lacked standing because she lived more than 200 feet from the proposed campus.\n<\/p>\n<p>During closing arguments, Campbell asserted his client has met the requirements in Archbald\u2019s zoning ordinance for data centers. Richards and Misewicz-Healey argued the developer failed to satisfy those requirements, notably on criteria that developments cannot pose a significant hazard to public health and safety.\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Justin Richards, who represents a group of borough residents...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0415-01.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Justin Richards, who represents a group of borough residents challenging Archbald\u2019s data center zoning, asks questions about the presented traffic study during the public hearing regarding the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Tamara Misewicz-Healey, co-founder of \u201cStop Archbald Data Centers\u201d, speaks during...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0617-09.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Tamara Misewicz-Healey, co-founder of \u201cStop Archbald Data Centers\u201d, speaks during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, June 15, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Edmund Campbell speaks during the hearing on the Wildcat...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0911-10.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Edmund Campbell speaks during the hearing on the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald Wednesday, September 9, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG \/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Edmund Campbell questions acoustical consultant John Michael Spencer during...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0714-03.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Edmund Campbell questions acoustical consultant John Michael Spencer during cross-examination at a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 13, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Justin Richards, right, and expert witness Micheal Cork, left,...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-VALLEYVIEWDATA-0708-02.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Justin Richards, right, and expert witness Micheal Cork, left, discuss the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 6, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald council members look on as Archbald resident Tamara Misewicz-Healey...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0312-6.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald council members look on as Archbald resident Tamara Misewicz-Healey cross-examines representatives from the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus during a public hearing at the Valley View High School in Archbald on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. (FRANK WILKES LESNEFSKY \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Justin Richards addresses representatives of the proposed Wildcat Ridge...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0806-08.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Justin Richards addresses representatives of the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus during a public hearing at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Attorney Justin Richards addresses Archbald borough officials during a public...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0714-02.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Attorney Justin Richards addresses Archbald borough officials during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, July 13, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Traffic engineer Frank Tavani, center, listens as Attorney Justin Richards,...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0617-05.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Traffic engineer Frank Tavani, center, listens as Attorney Justin Richards, foreground, questions him during a public hearing on the proposed Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School in Archbald, Pa., on Monday, June 15, 2026. (ISAAC DIAZ\/STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Archbald resident Tamara Misewicz-Healey cross-examines representatives from the Wildcat Ridge...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0312-1.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Archbald resident Tamara Misewicz-Healey cross-examines representatives from the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus during a public hearing at the Valley View High School in Archbald on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. (FRANK WILKES LESNEFSKY \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Stop Archbald Data Centers co-founder Tamara Misewicz-Healey cross examines testimony...\" class=\"lazyload size-article_inline\" data- src=\"https:\/\/www.thetimes-tribune.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/STT-L-WILDCAT-0516-02.jpg?w=620\"  bad-src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Stop Archbald Data Centers co-founder Tamara Misewicz-Healey cross examines testimony from Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus representatives during a conditional use hearing at the Valley View High School auditorium in Archbald on Thursday, May 14, 2026. (FRANK WILKES LESNEFSKY \/ STAFF PHOTO)\n<\/p>\n<p>Show Caption<\/p>\n<p>1 of 11<\/p>\n<p>Attorney Justin Richards, who represents a group of borough residents challenging Archbald\u2019s data center zoning, asks questions about the presented traffic study during the public hearing regarding the Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus at Valley View High School on Monday, April 13, 2026. (REBECCA PARTICKA\/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)\n<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"#\" class=\"icon-enlarge mng-gallery-fullscreen-expand\" aria-label=\"Expand fullscreen slideshow\">Expand<\/a><br \/>\nWhat happens next?<\/p>\n<p>Regardless of how council votes, the decision will likely face an appeal, elevating it to the Lackawanna County Court of Common Pleas. If council approves Wildcat Ridge, members of Stop Archbald Data Centers will likely appeal the decision, and if council denies the application, Cornell Realty Management has laid the groundwork for its own appeal.\n<\/p>\n<p>If the campus moves forward, it will still need land development approvals from the borough, as well as state and federal permitting.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Archbald Borough Council will likely decide the future of the controversial Wildcat Ridge Data Center Campus on Wednesday.&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":310121,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[2117,2116,201,182,139,28,178,180,179,181],"class_list":["post-310120","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-scranton","tag-archbald","tag-data-centers","tag-lackawanna-county","tag-local-news","tag-news","tag-pennsylvania","tag-scranton","tag-scranton-headlines","tag-scranton-news","tag-top-stories-stt"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/310120","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=310120"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/310120\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/310121"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=310120"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=310120"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=310120"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}