Starke County approves data center ban
Starke County commissioners approved an ordinance banning commercial data center development in all zoning districts across the county's unincorporated areas. The ban cites concerns about water consumption, electrical grid strain and low-frequency noise, amid widespread public opposition.
Starke County commissioners approved an ordinance Monday prohibiting commercial data centers from all zoning districts in the county's unincorporated areas. The measure cites potential impacts from extreme water consumption, electrical grid strain and low-frequency noise.
John McCurrie, the county's director of planning and building, told commissioners that residents had repeatedly voiced opposition to data centers at public meetings. Starke County had paused data center development the previous year; neighboring Marshall County has also enacted a ban, while St. Joseph County is considering similar action.