Staff introduced a DEP technical‑assistance program to map and protect the township’s public water sources: identify zone 1/zone 2 protection areas around 11 wells, analyze draw and contamination risks (USTs, agriculture, vehicle leaks), and develop outreach materials and emergency response strategies.

At a packed July 15 meeting, residents told the South Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners they oppose a proposed hyperscale data center (Project Atlas), citing noise, environmental and safety concerns. Township staff said revised plans are under a third technical review and listed review deadlines through Aug. 31.

Staff updated the commission that several intersection improvements are under construction and the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission has issued a call for projects; the township will prioritize and may revisit projects next meeting.

A Sheetz sketch plan for a 6,139‑sq‑ft convenience and fuel store at Tillman and Houseman prompted detailed commission questions about PennDOT coordination, truck turning, cross‑access with the Trivet Diner, parking requirements and potential waivers; no recommendation was required for the sketch plan.

Residents told the Planning Commission they remain unconvinced that the proposed Atlas (EDGE) data center across from Parkland High School has adequately addressed noise, generator, diesel storage and geology questions; staff announced a special meeting Sept. 23 to continue review.

Director of Planning Dave Manhart said South Whitehall will submit transportation and infrastructure projects — including Hamilton Boulevard improvements and a Kratzer Neighborhood Connections shared-use path — to the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission's open call to be included in the long-range transportation plan.

Multiple residents urged the board to scrutinize Project Atlas, a proposed data center; staff said the developer's latest submission will be posted for planning commission review and the board expects to take action in October unless further extensions are granted.

Staff said Project Atlas has been resubmitted and is not yet complete; if deemed complete it could appear before the planning commission ahead of the EAC meeting, so staff will post materials early online and encouraged the EAC to prepare questions in advance.

Residents at the South Whitehall Township meeting pressed officials for clearer explanations of the ordinance that governs data centers and questioned how the township vets applicants; staff said the ordinance is an "opt-in" by-right overlay designed to preserve the board's ability to require setbacks, buffers and studies and described escrow and security rules for public improvements.

Public commenters urged caution on the Atlas Data Center application, citing 120 on‑site emergency generators in the applicant’s noise study, questions about fuel storage and cooling‑water blowdown, potential changes to rural character and nearby wildlife (reported bald-eagle territory); township staff said a comment letter will be posted and that the township’s noise consultant will recreate the applicant’s measurements for independent verification.