City Council Approves Data Center Moratorium

City Council Approves Data Center Moratorium

News ClipWNIN·Evansville, Vanderburgh County, IN·10/6/2026

The Evansville City Council unanimously approved a 180-day moratorium on artificial intelligence data center development in the city. Officials cited unanswered concerns about data centers’ water and power demands and the cost of needed infrastructure, while noting the pause could be extended.

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Gov: Evansville City Council, Area Plan Commission, Warrick County Commissioners, Vanderburgh County

The Evansville City Council voted 9-0 to impose a 180-day moratorium on artificial intelligence data center development. Council President Ben Trockman said the action reflects concerns raised by residents, while Councilor Mary Allen said the pause could be extended if officials need more time to address outstanding questions.

Evansville will work with the Area Plan Commission to establish development parameters rather than create its own study committee. The article also notes that Warrick County approved a similar moratorium in August and that Amazon is considering a data center site in Posey County.