Commissioners uphold decision to allow a data center be built on 550 acres at Jefferson Proving Grounds
Jefferson County Commissioners in Indiana upheld a zoning decision, allowing a controversial 7.1 million-square-foot data center to be built on 549 acres of the Jefferson Proving Grounds. This decision came after a lengthy and heated public hearing where hundreds of residents voiced opposition due to concerns about environmental impact, water usage, utility costs, and transparency. Despite public pushback, the project proponents cited significant annual tax revenue and job creation benefits for the county.
Following a 5.5-hour public hearing, the Jefferson County Commissioners in Indiana voted to uphold a controversial zoning decision, paving the way for a 7.1 million-square-foot data center on 549 acres of the former Jefferson Proving Grounds. The land, part of a 3,600-acre parcel owned by the Ford family since 1995, is slated for sale for the development.
The controversy began in February when Jefferson County Zoning Administrator Josh Cline determined that the area's heavy industrial zoning classification applied to data centers, despite them not being explicitly listed in the ordinance. This determination was appealed by resident Deborah Jones.
Hundreds of Jefferson County residents attended the public hearing, many expressing strong opposition. Concerns raised included a lack of transparency, potential tax abatements, fire safety, environmental impacts, and effects on water resources and utility bills. Residents like Janice articulated the community's desire for protection over development, with one calling the project a "parasite." Conversely, Dean Ford, representing the landowning family, emphasized the economic benefits, projecting $60 million in annual tax revenue, significant infrastructure improvements, and 300-450 jobs. Another resident, Jack, supported the development, citing the county's need for funds and infrastructure. The company slated to operate the data center remains unnamed.