LaPorte County moves forward with data center restrictions

LaPorte County Commissioners have unanimously voted to move forward with an ordinance aimed at restricting the location and operation of data centers within the county. This decision follows significant public concern raised by a proposed Microsoft data center, with residents expressing worries about increased noise, traffic, and water usage, as well as potential spikes in energy and water bills and the loss of agricultural land. The new ordinance will implement restrictions on setbacks, noise levels, and water usage for any future data center projects in LaPorte County. According to Commission President Steve Holifield, the ordinance is based on a template from Lake County, which was the first and only county in the state to implement such restrictions, with added provisions tailored to LaPorte County's specific needs. During a public comment session, one resident voiced skepticism about Microsoft's promises, citing concerns about a specific data center's water usage exceeding stated claims and mentioning discussions with NIPSCO.