Munster Plan Commission tables data center-related ordinance
The Munster Plan Commission tabled an ordinance concerning a planned-use development agreement at Kenmara Technology Park that would allow data centers as a special exception use. This decision comes amidst strong public opposition, including protests and a petition with over 1,000 signatures, citing concerns about noise, water pollution, and property values. Simultaneously, the commission issued a neutral recommendation for a unified development ordinance, which would incorporate specific standards for regulating data centers, with the Munster Town Council expected to address it.
The Munster Plan Commission has tabled a controversial ordinance related to a planned-use development agreement for Kenmara Technology Park, which would introduce data centers as a special exception use. The decision was made during a packed meeting following significant public protest and a petition organized by resident Noah LaPorte, collecting over 1,000 signatures.
Residents, including Nemanja Lazarevic from Munster and Daniel Bovino and Kathy Keener from nearby Lansing, Illinois, expressed strong opposition to potential data center developments. Concerns primarily revolve around water pollution, noise pollution, decreased property values, and the impact on residential areas.
In a separate action, the Plan Commission gave a neutral recommendation for updates to the town's zoning code and the potential adoption of a unified development ordinance. This new ordinance is intended to include specific language and standards for regulating the growing data center industry within a special exception framework. Councilman David Nellans indicated the unified development ordinance requires further work before being ready.
Saxon Partners, represented by development director Gary Warfel, confirmed there is no current proposal for a data center at Kenmara, and any future facility would not be hyperscale, facing rigorous special use requirements. The Munster Town Council is scheduled to vote on the unified development ordinance on Monday, July 20, with amendments to Kenmara's PUD expected to be voted on by the Plan Commission on August 11.