Vermillion County Dismisses Data Center Ordinance
Vermillion County commissioners dismissed a proposed ordinance and resolution for data center regulations at the Vermillion Rise Mega Park, following strong public opposition over concerns like water use, electricity demand, and noise. The county will now develop a new data center ordinance from the ground up, with plans for public participation. A separate proposal for a temporary moratorium was introduced but not adopted.
Vermillion County commissioners in Indiana voted unanimously to dismiss a proposed ordinance and resolution aimed at regulating data centers at the Vermillion Rise Mega Park. The decision, made on August 25, followed hours of public testimony from residents who voiced significant concerns about the potential environmental and community impacts of data center development.
Residents highlighted issues such as excessive water usage, strain on the electricity grid, noise from equipment, light pollution, and a perceived lack of transparency from the Vermillion Rise Board regarding project discussions. A petition with over 2,000 signatures, advocating for stronger safeguards, was also presented. Commission President R.J. Dunavan expressed disappointment that the Vermillion Rise Board did not send a representative to discuss the proposal and introduced the concept of a temporary moratorium to allow for the development of appropriate protections, though this measure was not ultimately adopted.
Instead of approving the existing framework, which the Area Plan Commission advised discarding, the commissioners directed the Vermillion County Area Plan Commission to begin drafting a new data center ordinance. This new process will involve public participation, with a proposed working group including members from the Area Plan Commission, county commissioners, County Council, Vermillion Rise, and the public. The county emphasized that while it remains open to economic development, future projects must be governed by regulations that prioritize resident protection and responsible development.