Columbus adds oversight to data center proposals
Columbus, Indiana, has adopted an ordinance to add oversight to data center proposals, requiring approval from the board of zoning appeals. This policy was enacted in response to interest from developers, although no formal proposals have yet been submitted to the city. The move reflects a broader trend in Indiana counties establishing their own regulations for data center development.
The city of Columbus, Indiana, has enacted an ordinance to establish new oversight for data center proposals, a decision prompted by increasing interest from developers. Mayor Mary Ferdon confirmed that the city council passed the measure, making data centers a permitted use but requiring approval from the Board of Zoning Appeals.
Mayor Ferdon explained that this new requirement ensures a governmental body provides oversight, which in turn facilitates public input on potential projects. While multiple developers have engaged in discussions with the city, Ferdon noted that no formal proposals for data center construction have been submitted yet.
The policy adopted by Columbus aligns with a growing trend across Indiana. A study by Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute found that 13 counties in the state have adopted specific ordinances for data centers. Furthermore, 24 counties have implemented temporary moratoria on new data center construction, and three, including Monroe County, have enacted outright bans.