Miami County Commissioners Enact NDA Policy, Update Zoning to Address Data Centers
Miami County Commissioners enacted a new policy prohibiting county employees from signing Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) without commissioner approval to ensure transparency in economic development, especially regarding data center projects. Concurrently, the county is updating its zoning resolution to specifically address data center development, aiming to carefully consider potential impacts before project approval.
The Miami County Commissioners in Ohio issued a directive on July 30, 2026, prohibiting county employees from entering into Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) without explicit commissioner approval. This new policy, effective immediately, applies to all work-related confidentiality agreements and aims to enhance transparency in economic development, particularly concerning data center projects. Violations of the directive could lead to employee termination.
Joel Smith, the Miami County Commissioners’ Administrator, read a press release explaining that increased scrutiny on NDAs is part of a broader effort to conduct economic development transparently. Commissioner Wade Westfall emphasized that while the directive provides guidance on confidentiality, it primarily strengthens accountability and public trust in decisions affecting the county.
Additionally, the commissioners are overseeing an initiative by the Miami County Department of Development to update the county’s zoning resolution. This update will specifically address data centers for the first time, ensuring that potential negative impacts of projects are carefully considered before approval. The zoning resolution applies to unincorporated areas of Miami County, as incorporated cities, villages, and certain townships have their own zoning authority. This proactive measure is being taken to prepare for future large-scale projects, including data centers, rather than in response to any specific project currently in the pipeline.