Common Council - August 24, 2026

The Common Council of Kokomo, Indiana, held a meeting on August 24, 2026, primarily focused on the first reading of Ordinance 7,250, which proposes amendments to the city's zoning ordinance, including updated standards for data centers. The ordinance addresses state law changes, variance issues, and enhanced regulations for data centers such as increased setbacks, landscaping buffers, and noise restrictions. Public comments expressed significant community concern about the environmental and residential impacts of data centers, including noise, water usage, and light pollution. Despite opposition, the ordinance passed first reading with a 6-2 vote. Additionally, the council approved Resolution 2866, an interlocal agreement with Howard County to transfer a portion of local income tax revenues to support county jail bond payments. The council also passed ordinances vacating certain city right-of-ways and alleyways and introduced the 2027 city budget ordinance totaling over $128 million, with a public hearing scheduled for September 14, 2026.