Dearborn County creating new committee for data center, solar farm proposals
Dearborn County commissioners are forming a new citizen review committee to gather more public input on future data center and solar farm proposals. This committee will review applications and advise the commissioners, following a previous moratorium on such developments. The move aims to address residents' concerns and ensure broader community involvement in the decision-making process.
The Dearborn County Commissioners are in the process of establishing a new citizen review committee to enhance public input on proposed data center and solar farm developments. This initiative follows a previous moratorium approved by the commissioners in February, which was a response to strong public opinions regarding a proposed solar farm. Residents expressed feelings of exclusion from the direct process, leading to a desire for more structured public engagement.
The committee, which will consist of seven members including a County Commissioner and six citizens, is designed to provide recommendations to the commissioners on future energy system proposals. Dearborn County Administrator Sue expects the selection process to consider 26 applications received. This step is seen as crucial for the county to respond effectively to development proposals while ensuring local perspectives are heard and understood. The exact selection of committee members and the lead commissioner will be decided at a later date, with updates to follow.