Fayette County commissioners adopt resolution backing energy and industrial development, including data centers

The Fayette County Board of Commissioners voted to adopt Resolution 25‑R‑8, a measure declaring the county open to energy and industrial development proposals including data centers. The motion, offered by Commissioner Dale and seconded by Commissioner Tracy, passed by voice vote.

EDG Director Brad Colter told commissioners the Indiana Economic Development Corporation has encouraged counties to state a position on data centers and new power-generation technologies. Colter said the county’s willingness to consider proposals could attract projects with substantial taxable equipment value even if they employ relatively few people. "If we were to get an opportunity to have one, I think it would be a huge tax revenue for" the county, he said.

Colter acknowledged some communities have pushed back after problematic projects but argued modern facilities use safer closed-loop cooling systems and improved technologies. The county attorney cautioned that adopting the resolution does not obligate the county to approve any particular project or change land‑use rules; he advised the county planning body to begin drafting targeted ordinances and recommended public hearings before imposing fines or new regulatory requirements.

Supporters said the resolution is intended to guide the Area Planning Commission (APC) as it drafts ordinances and to signal the county’s economic-development priorities; opponents were not recorded during the discussion. The resolution does not change zoning or authorize any specific project; subsequent reviews, permits and any tax-abatement negotiations would proceed under existing procedures.

Next steps: commissioners signaled they expect the APC and county attorney to collaborate on ordinance language and suggested public hearings be scheduled so residents can comment on any proposed regulatory changes.