Portage considers creating data center zone; proposal going through legal review

Portage, Indiana, Mayor Austin Bonta is spearheading a proposal to establish a new "Technology Campus" zoning category specifically for data centers within the city. The initiative seeks to standardize and centralize regulations for future data center developments, aiming to enhance transparency and address community concerns. The proposal is currently undergoing legal review and is slated for public hearings before the Plan Commission and City Council.

Under Mayor Bonta's plan, data centers would no longer be permitted under existing general zoning classifications. Instead, they would be restricted to this newly created Technology Campus (TC) zone, which would enforce specific requirements for setbacks, building height, noise, water usage, and energy consumption. This move aligns with actions taken by neighboring municipalities, including Hobart and Lake County, which have already adopted or are developing similar data center ordinances.

While acknowledging the significant economic benefits data centers can offer, referencing a $47 million annual fee negotiated by Hobart Mayor Josh Huddlestun with Amazon, Bonta stressed the importance of ensuring that such developments are located appropriately and benefit the community without causing harm. He clarified that the proposal is proactive, designed to establish robust guidelines for potential future data center projects, as there is currently no specific new data center proposal pending in Portage.

The proposed zoning change would not affect the existing data center in the Ameriplex development on the city's north side. However, any future data center project would necessitate rezoning to the Technology Campus category, ensuring public review and approval processes. Bonta emphasized that this transparent approach would allow residents to voice their support or opposition and ask questions to the Plan Commission and City Council.