Parke County gets ahead of data center boom with new ordinance
Parke County, Indiana, has proactively passed an ordinance to restrict data center development before any proposals were made. The ordinance places requirements on electricity usage and utility rates to protect local supply and prevent rate increases. County officials also seek transparency and the use of local labor for any potential projects.
Parke County, Indiana, is proactively addressing the expansion of data centers in the Wabash Valley by drafting and passing an ordinance to restrict them, even before any specific proposals have been made in the county. County Commissioner Jim Mei stated that the ordinance includes two key provisions concerning electricity usage and utility rates, aiming to protect the local electric supply from brownouts and prevent increased utility costs for residents.
Commissioner Mei emphasized the importance of transparency in any negotiations, expressing discomfort with non-disclosure agreements in public life. He also indicated a requirement for local laborers to be used during the construction phase of any data center. While acknowledging the potential for significant financial benefits, Mei stressed that the county would not accept any deal that negatively impacts Parke County, indicating a cautious approach. The ordinance has passed but will undergo further wording refinement before being codified.