Hazle Township Supervisors voted unanimously on June 8, 2024, to implement a 180-day pause on new data center applications within the township. During this period, the board intends to update zoning rules and introduce specific restrictions for data centers.

This action follows proposals for Project Hazelnut, a data center complex planned by NorthPoint Development. The project includes 15 buildings and an electrical substation on a nearly 1,300-acre site in Hazle Township. Governor Josh Shapiro introduced Project Hazelnut in November 2023 as a flagship initiative under the state's "Fast Track" program.

Project Hazelnut was projected to create 900 jobs and increase tax revenue. NorthPoint Development announced a $165 million community benefits fund on June 24, 2024, as part of a revised proposal for the project. This fund includes $10,000 grants for eligible households in Hazle Township.

In November 2023, Hazle Township residents intervened, stopping Project Hazelnut from proceeding due to non-compliance with township procedures by the board and developers. NorthPoint Development filed an appeal following this decision. Approximately 100 residents subsequently intervened on behalf of Hazle Township in the appeal. In May 2024, a county court ruled against NorthPoint Development regarding Project Hazelnut.

Joanne Balay, a Hazle Township resident, commented on the situation. "We have a beautiful area here. First, it was scarred by coal mines, and we don't want any more damage done." Balay said. Recent polling indicates that 33 percent of residents in northeastern Pennsylvania expressed strong opposition to data center development in or near their communities. Luzerne County is home to three Superfund sites.