INDIANAPOLIS — The Metropolitan Development Commission advanced a special zoning district for data centers during a public meeting on Wednesday, July 1.
Citizens opposing the data centers crowded into the City-County Building Public Assembly Room, waiting to speak during the public comment period. Many asked the commission to issue a moratorium on the facilities, but the commissioners instead voted 5-3 in favor of the zoning proposal.
The special zoning district could put up guardrails for the centers, requiring them to submit plans for noise mitigation and water and electricity use. Facilities must be no louder than 55 decibels and are required to submit a decommissioning plan in the event the data center closes down.
Other measures include the primary building of the data center being at least 400 feet from the property line. All mechanical equipment must also be hidden from view from adjoining properties and the public right-of-way.
Citizens have concerns about the noise and fumes of diesel generators, as well as excessive use of water and electricity will strain local utilities, and raise prices for residential customers.
It will now advance to the Indianapolis City-County Council, were no comments or discussions will be held. Councilors will instead hear public comment during the Monday, July 13 meeting of the Metropolitan and Economic Development Committee meeting. The meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. in the City-County Building, 200 E. Washington St., Room 230.