Data center rules proposal clears initial vote in Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Development Commission voted to recommend a new special zoning class for data centers in Marion County. This ordinance, which will regulate data center placement, proximity to homes, noise, and require annual reports on energy/water consumption, now moves to the City-County Council for final approval. Residents expressed disappointment as their request to pause the vote for further development and expert input was denied.
The Metropolitan Development Commission in Indianapolis has voted 5-3 to recommend the creation of a new special zoning class for data centers, a move aimed at regulating their development within Marion County. This proposed ordinance will address where data centers can be built, their proximity to residential areas, and the noise levels they can generate. It also mandates annual reports from developers detailing operations, including energy and water consumption, noise, and backup generator testing.
The decision comes amidst significant controversy surrounding data centers in Indiana, primarily due to concerns over their substantial water and energy demands. Economic development officials in the state, however, view data centers as a key component of Indiana's growth strategy.
Despite requests from numerous residents, including those from Irvington where a DC Blox data center campus is proposed, to delay the vote for further development and expert input, Commission President John Dillon pushed the proposal forward. Residents, like Heather Street, expressed disappointment following the vote, highlighting ongoing dissatisfaction with the governmental process. The ordinance now proceeds to the full City-County Council, with final approval anticipated by August.