Merrillville Town Council Approves One-Year Data Center Moratorium
The Merrillville Town Council has approved a one-year moratorium on new data center construction, effective from June 1, 2026, to May 31, 2027. This period will allow officials to study the impacts of data centers and learn from a major campus being built in neighboring Hobart.
The Merrillville Town Council, during its May 26 meeting, unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on new data center construction, which will be in effect from June 1 until May 31, 2027. This decision was made to ensure town officials have adequate time to research and understand the potential impacts these large developments could have on their community.
Council President Rick Bella highlighted Merrillville's unique opportunity to closely observe a major data center campus under construction in nearby Hobart. He stated that this allows the town to "study the facts, evaluate real-world impacts and learn from a project developing right next door before determining what may or may not be appropriate for Merrillville," emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making.
The moratorium follows approaches from four different developers interested in building data centers in Merrillville. To further educate residents and officials, the Northwest Indiana Forum will host an educational meeting on June 11 at the Dean and Barbara White Community Center, featuring experts and providing a platform for residents to address industry leaders.