7/13/2026 APC MEETING

The Warrick County, Indiana Area Plan Commission held a meeting on July 13, 2026, primarily focused on discussing a proposed ordinance regulating data centers within the county. The ordinance aims to define and control the development of small, medium, and large data centers, with particular attention to environmental impacts, utility usage, noise, and decommissioning requirements. The commission reviewed the ordinance, which includes a moratorium on large data centers over 40,000 square feet, and considered public comments from various stakeholders including union representatives, local business leaders, residents, and county officials. Opinions were divided, with some advocating for the economic benefits and job creation potential of data centers, while others expressed concerns about environmental impacts, water usage, noise pollution, and long-term community effects. The commission discussed the need for further study, potential bond requirements for decommissioning, and enforcement mechanisms. A motion to table the ordinance for further review was suggested to allow more time for research and public input before forwarding a recommendation to the county commissioners, who hold the authority to enact the ordinance.