Huntington County residents push back as plan commission moves toward data center ordinance
Huntington County residents are pushing back against a proposed ordinance by the Plan Commission that would establish a framework for future data center projects. Residents expressed concerns about allowing data centers in existing industrial zones and the language in the attorney's draft options. The commission expects a finalized version of the ordinance by year-end, with another public meeting scheduled for August 12.
Huntington County residents gathered at the county courthouse to voice their opposition to a proposed ordinance designed to create a framework for future data center projects. The Huntington County Plan Commission aims to use community feedback to guide attorney Tim Ochs of Ice Miller in drafting the ordinance.
Ochs presented four options, with the commission selecting the first, which would permit data centers in existing industrial or manufacturing zones. Residents, including David MacDonald, expressed strong disapproval of this direction, fearing that vague language in the attorney's letter could allow for changes to restrictions like closed-loop systems. The vast majority of attendees spoke against the introduction of data centers into the county.
County leaders anticipate a finalized ordinance by the end of the year. The next commission meeting regarding this topic, which will include public comment, is scheduled for August 12.