Lake County Plan Commission tables data center amendment
The Lake County Plan Commission unanimously tabled an amendment that would establish new zoning definitions, approval requirements and operating standards for data centers. The proposed rules would require measures addressing electric capacity, water management, thermal impacts, noise and emergency access, while a zoning consultant reviews the language.
The Lake County Plan Commission postponed consideration of an amendment to the Unincorporated Lake County Unified Development Ordinance that would create new guidelines for data centers. The measure would classify data centers under wholesale, distribution and storage uses, prohibit them in business districts and require special-exception approval in M-1 light industrial zones.
The proposed standards include site and construction plans, emergency access routes, confirmation from NIPSCO that adequate electric capacity is available, water management plans, thermal and microclimate analyses, insurance documentation, and noise studies. Commission members said they wanted a zoning consultant to review enforcement and ensure the rules remain clear and workable before the amendment returns for a potential public hearing.
The policy debate follows the county’s consideration of Project Shirley, a proposed data center by New York-based Sentinel Data Centers on about 160 acres in Eagle Creek Township near Lowell. The Lake County Council previously advanced that project, which Sentinel plans to develop in phases over five years.