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LaPorte County Plan Commission votes 8–1 to recommend Data Center ordinance after public hearing
Summary
After an extended public hearing with residents urging stronger safeguards or a moratorium, the LaPorte County Plan Commission voted 8–1 to forward a draft Data Center ordinance to the County Commissioners for consideration. The draft would allow data centers by Special Exception in M1 and M2 zones and requires disclosures on infrastructure and operational standards.
The LaPorte County Plan Commission voted 8–1 on April 28 to forward a proposed Data Center ordinance to the County Commissioners after a lengthy public hearing in which residents raised concerns about noise, groundwater, generator emissions, and notification.
Chair Rita Beaty introduced the draft ordinance and emphasized its advisory role under Indiana Code and Article 27 of the LaPorte County Joint Zoning Ordinance, saying, "The ordinance does not prohibit Data Centers. It allows them only by Special Exception in M1 and M2 Industrial Districts, ensuring each proposal is reviewed on a case-by-case basis." The draft requires applicants to disclose electrical demand, water usage, site design and to propose mitigation measures for lighting, noise, dewatering and traffic.
Multiple residents urged stronger requirements or a pause on approvals. Nancy Moldenhauer, a Michigan City council member, asked the commission to require higher-tier pollution controls for backup generators and called for cumulative-impact reviews for facilities within several miles of homes. Deborah Shore, a former EPA regional administrator, urged changing discretionary language from "may" to "shall" for cumulative-impact assessments so the Plan Commission must consider cumulative impacts of existing and approved data centers.
Commissioners debated procedure and timing. Building Commissioner Mike Polan told the commission that the draft applies only to unincorporated LaPorte County and that municipal projects fall under city jurisdiction. Commissioner Steve Holifield, citing outreach to other jurisdictions with operational experience, urged moving a recommendation forward so the county would have a regulatory framework in place. "We can always look into this later and update it," he said during discussion.
After a roll-call vote (eight ayes, one nay), the commission forwarded the draft with a favorable recommendation; the County Commissioners will consider the ordinance at a subsequent meeting. The commission’s action is advisory — the final decision rests with the County Commissioners.
