Posey Commissioners Say They’d Vote No On Data Center Rezoning
Posey County commissioners have publicly stated they would vote against any rezoning request for a data center in the agricultural areas outside Wadesville, citing traffic concerns. This decision was met with applause from local residents organized in opposition, who fear impacts on water, utilities, and farmland. The Area Plan Commission is concurrently developing a general ordinance to regulate future data center developments, with a public hearing scheduled for August 18.
Posey County Commissioners President Bill Collins, Vice President Greg Newman, and Commissioner Eric Koester publicly announced their intent to vote against any rezoning request for a data center in the agricultural areas outside Wadesville. Their statements were made during a Tuesday morning meeting and received applause from a large audience of residents, many from the "Protect Posey County" group, who have been voicing opposition to such a development.
Commissioner Collins cited traffic as a primary concern for his "no" vote, emphasizing that the proposed location is "not the right place." While no formal proposal for a data center has been submitted, residents in the rural area have reported being approached by companies seeking to buy land. Opponents are concerned about potential negative impacts on local water supplies, increased utility costs, and the destruction of farmland.
The commissioners clarified that their stance is specific to the particular agricultural area and not a general opposition to data centers elsewhere in Posey County. Meanwhile, the Area Plan Commission, led by President Joe Marvel, is reviewing a proposed ordinance to establish zoning, height, and other requirements for future data center structures. A public hearing for this ordinance is scheduled for August 18, with significant time allocated for public comment before a vote at a later date. It was also noted that four informal inquiries from companies regarding zoning requirements have been received by the county, and the commissioners had previously signed non-disclosure agreements related to a company interested in the area.