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Commissioners say proposed ordinance language will address data centers; no active project exists
Summary
Commissioners discussed an upcoming amendment to county land-use language that would clarify rules for data-center development; they emphasized the county is not currently facing a concrete data-center proposal and said it cannot simply outlaw such development but can set permitting guidelines.
Commissioner Cely told the board June 10 that roughly 49 residents attended a public meeting in West Mead Township about an upcoming ordinance amendment that includes new language addressing data-center development in Crawford County.
“We want to get out ahead of this,” Cely said, describing changes to clarify definitions and setbacks and to add logistical rules for any developer seeking to build data-center facilities. Cely said the county is not aware of any active data-center project in the pipeline but wants to prepare rules to protect natural resources and quality of life.
Commissioner Shell urged residents to stop circulating rumors that a data center is already planned. “If somebody tells you we’re building a data center, tell them no, that’s not true,” Shell said.
County officials stressed that while they cannot legally “outlaw” an industry, they can establish development standards to manage impacts. The board did not take a formal vote on ordinance language at the June 10 meeting; commissioners said the planning team and planning commission have been involved and more public engagement will continue ahead of any amendment brought back to the board.
Why it matters: The exchange shows local officials responding to community concern and signaling forthcoming regulatory changes that could shape siting, setbacks and mitigation for large infrastructure such as data centers.
Next steps: Commissioners indicated the planning department and volunteer planning commission will continue work on draft language and public outreach before any formal board action.
