Parke County sets rules for potential data centers
Parke County Commissioners have passed an ordinance to regulate potential data centers, requiring them to be independent of local water sources and electricity grids to prevent negative impacts on residents. This action comes amidst concerns from other Wabash Valley residents about data center proliferation and opposition from Clay County Commissioners to a proposed generating station that could support such developments. The ordinance aims to proactively address potential issues before any specific data center proposals emerge.
Parke County Commissioners passed an ordinance on Monday to regulate potential data centers, establishing guidelines they must follow if they choose to build in the county. Commission President Jim Meece stated that there are currently no plans or conversations with developers for a data center in Parke County, but the proactive measure was taken in response to broader concerns.
The new regulations stipulate that any data center must be completely independent of the county's water source, requiring them to bring their own water and utilize a closed-loop, non-evaporative system. Additionally, data centers must provide their own electricity to ensure no negative impact on the availability or cost of power for existing residents.
This development follows concerns from residents in the Wabash Valley, including Sullivan County where a data center is already under construction, about the potential influx of more data centers. Meanwhile, a natural gas peak generating station has been proposed for Parke County. In neighboring Clay County, Commissioner Paul Sanders reported that the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has issued permits for a generating station on 27 acres between Brazil and Carbon without the knowledge or approval of local officials.
Clay County Commissioners are openly opposed to the idea of a data center coming to their area. While Parke County's Meece expressed an openness to consider proposals, he emphasized that the needs and well-being of Parke County residents would be prioritized, and they would not accept any development that would harm the community.