Hancock County, IN - 8/18/2026 Special Meeting - Citizens' Committee on Data Center Siting

The Hancock County Citizens' Committee on Data Center Siting held a special meeting on August 18, 2026, to discuss the county's approach to emerging technology projects, specifically data centers. The committee reviewed a draft overlay ordinance aimed at regulating data center siting, including provisions on setbacks, noise limits, architectural standards, utility plans, and financial assurances. Public comments overwhelmingly expressed concerns about environmental impacts, noise pollution, water usage, property values, and community health, with many speakers advocating for a moratorium on data center development until further studies and regulations are established. The committee clarified the multi-step zoning and approval process for data center projects, involving letters of intent, rezoning, plan commission recommendations, and final approval by the board of commissioners. After extensive public input, the committee moved to recommend a moratorium on data center projects to the Hancock Area Plan Commission to allow more time for comprehensive evaluation and community engagement.