The St. Joseph County Area Plan Commission (APC) convened on September 17, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding a proposed data center project. The meeting focused on the rezoning process and community concerns surrounding the project, which has faced skepticism from local residents.

The session began with a presentation from Brandon Dickinson, representing the developers. He emphasized the commitment to address community concerns by proposing a downzoning that would restrict certain industrial uses, such as a potential slaughterhouse, from being established if the data center project does not proceed. Dickinson highlighted ongoing discussions with the town of New Carlisle to develop additional standards that exceed county requirements, aiming to ensure that the project aligns with local expectations.

Dickinson noted that the site plan presented was a result of feedback from community members, including those who live near the proposed site. He acknowledged that the plan had evolved over the past four months, incorporating suggestions to improve the visual impact of the facility, such as relocating electrical infrastructure away from public view.

However, the meeting revealed a palpable distrust among residents regarding the developers' promises. Molly Hannon, the town representative, expressed concerns about the reliability of site plans, referencing past experiences where commitments were not honored. She articulated a broader sentiment of skepticism within the community, emphasizing that residents feel their voices have not been adequately considered in previous developments.

In response, Dickinson reassured attendees that the APC has the authority to recommend binding commitments to ensure that the developers adhere to the proposed site plan. He stressed the importance of legal mechanisms that could prevent deviations from the agreed-upon plans, aiming to restore some level of trust in the process.

The discussion also touched on the need for transparency and accountability in the rezoning process. Hannon reiterated the community's desire for assurances that any future developments would respect previously established agreements, particularly regarding buffer zones and land use.

As the meeting concluded, the APC acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue with the community. The next steps involve further discussions to address the concerns raised and to refine the project in a manner that aligns with both developer interests and community needs. The outcome of this meeting sets the stage for ongoing negotiations as stakeholders work towards a resolution that satisfies both the developers and the residents of St. Joseph County.