Washington residents turn out in force as data center questions go unanswered

Nearly 100 Washington, Indiana residents attended a city council meeting after a proposed 120-acre data center project came to light three weeks prior. Washington Mayor David Rhoads informed the packed room that the data center was not on the agenda and would not be discussed that evening, promising potential future public updates. Despite the mayor's announcement and the absence of a public comment period, residents remained for the entire meeting. Rowdy Abbott, a resident, expressed frustration over the inability for the community to speak, noting the unusual turnout for a typically sparsely attended meeting. The proposed data center, planned for the southeast corner of I-69 and US 50, faces opposition due to concerns it could stifle other economic growth in the area. Developer Outrigger Industrial needs the city to amend zoning ordinances and secure water and sewer services for the site before construction can begin.