Evansville City Council to consider data center moratorium
The Evansville City Council held the first reading of a proposed 180-day moratorium on data centers, following a recommendation from the Evansville Area Plan Commission. This pause aims to allow time for officials to research the potential impacts of data centers and determine appropriate zoning. The second reading is scheduled for October 5.
The Evansville City Council has conducted the first reading of a proposed ordinance that would establish a 180-day moratorium on data center development within the city. This action follows a recommendation earlier this month from the Evansville Area Plan Commission.
City officials indicate that the temporary ban is intended to provide them with sufficient time to thoroughly investigate the potential impacts of data centers on the community. It would also allow for a review of existing zoning regulations to determine their suitability for data center projects. While initially considering a new committee for studies, the council decided against it, noting that the county already formed its own study committee in August, which has since initiated its own moratorium. The second reading of the city's proposed moratorium is set for October 5, and if approved, it would take effect immediately.