Indianapolis City-County Council committee recommends moratorium on data centers
The Indianapolis City-County Council's Metropolitan Economic Development Committee has recommended a moratorium on data centers in Marion County until at least December 31, 2027. This proposal, championed by Council President Maggie Lewis and supported by Mayor Joe Hogsett, comes amidst public concerns over data centers' environmental impact, energy and water consumption, and potential effects on utility bills. The amendment will now proceed to the full City-County Council for a vote.
The Metropolitan Economic Development Committee of the Indianapolis City-County Council has voted 10 to 3 in favor of a zoning ordinance amendment proposing a moratorium on data center development throughout Marion County. If approved by the full City-County Council, the moratorium would be in effect until at least December 31, 2027.
The amendment, sponsored by Council President Maggie Lewis, follows months of public pressure from residents expressing significant concerns. Public commenters at Monday night's meeting cited worries about the high water and energy consumption of data centers, potential air and noise pollution, and their impact on residents' utility bills. Residents also questioned tax abatements for these companies while facing tax increases.
Council President Lewis expressed satisfaction with the committee's outcome, emphasizing the need for a "deep dive" into how data centers truly impact the community before allowing further development. Mayor Joe Hogsett also signaled his support for the moratorium, tweeting his welcome for additional time to continue the "vital conversation." The proposed amendment will now advance to the full City-County Council for consideration in early August.