The Vermillion County Board of Commissioners voted to adopt Resolution 2025-11 at a special meeting, formally designating the Vermillion Rise Megapark as the county’s primary location for data centers, digital infrastructure and large-scale industrial development.

The resolution, read in full by Speaker 2, says the county recognizes that projects like data centers require “substantial water, power, transportation, connectivity, and land use capability,” and therefore must be sited carefully to align with long-term community values and planning objectives. "Vermillion Rise Mega Park shall serve as the primary and preferred location for data centers, digital infrastructure facilities, and large scale industrial projects," the reading states.

Under the adopted language, proposals for comparable projects outside Vermillion Rise will be considered only if they fully align with the Vermillion County comprehensive plan and if they receive demonstrated support from the communities directly affected. The resolution also directs county coordination with utility and state partners and the Vermillion Rise Megapark board to advance necessary infrastructure improvements, and it emphasizes transparency and public engagement in permitting and review.

Speaker 1 moved to approve Resolution 2025-11 and Speaker 2 seconded. The motion carried by voice vote; two commissioners voted "aye" and one commissioner (Misty Hess) was recorded as absent on roll call.

The resolution places formal policy preference on Vermillion Rise as the county’s hub for high-density industrial uses while preserving the board’s ability to consider projects outside the park only under the stated conditions. The board did not provide additional detail at the meeting about specific project proposals, utility agreements, or timelines for infrastructure improvements.

The commission ended the special meeting after adopting the resolution; no further public comment was recorded.