St. Joseph County Council votes 6-3 to begin data center ban process
The St. Joseph County Council voted 6-3 to initiate a process for banning hyperscale data centers in unincorporated areas, tasking the Area Plan Commission with drafting zoning ordinance amendments. This resolution is a preliminary step, not an immediate ban, and has sparked debate among council members and the community. Simultaneously, multifaith leaders are urging Amazon and Microsoft to commit to a "Fair Share Agreement" for local investment.
On September 22, the St. Joseph County Council in Indiana voted 6-3 to initiate a process that could lead to a ban on hyperscale data center developments within the county's unincorporated areas. The resolution instructs the Area Plan Commission to define terms and draft necessary amendments to the local zoning ordinance to prohibit such facilities. Council President Bryan Tanner emphasized that the vote serves as an "initiating action" to address community fears regarding data center impacts, while also acknowledging the economic benefits they can bring.
The proposal encountered opposition from Council members Diana Hess, Mark Catanzarite, and Dan Schaetlze. Council member Hess highlighted the positive contributions of an existing Amazon data center, including over $1.5 million in community grants, substantial job creation, and apprentice recruitment. She contended that a ban would place unincorporated areas at a disadvantage compared to incorporated cities like South Bend and Mishawaka, arguing against bans and moratoriums as detrimental to community investment.
Jeff Rea, President and CEO of the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce, echoed concerns, stating that prohibiting an entire industry could deter future investors. He suggested establishing clear standards and performance requirements to address issues such as water and power consumption, land use, noise, and infrastructure, rather than implementing an outright ban. Conversely, numerous residents expressed support for the ban, citing environmental concerns, potential impacts on water systems, and a desire to preempt future state or federal legislation that might limit local regulatory power.
Concurrently, multifaith leaders from We Make Indiana, led by Pastor Randall Koehler, urged Amazon and Microsoft to commit to a "Fair Share Agreement." They called for the companies to dedicate capital, profits, and resources toward the South Bend area's health and well-being, specifically through contractual agreements, policies, tax contributions, and preventative measures.