The Starke County Plan Commission took additional steps toward a proposed prohibition on commercial data centers during its meeting Wednesday, October 14th.
The board held a public hearing on findings of fact related to the proposed prohibition before voting to adopt Resolution 2026-PC-15-R.
During the hearing, the board reviewed a definition of commercial data centers that includes large-scale data centers, cryptocurrency mining facilities, and server farms. The definition excludes certain telecommunications infrastructure and internal information technology rooms that meet specified requirements.
A speaker explained that the findings of fact were developed using information gathered during public meetings dating back to 2025, along with research conducted by planning staff, legal counsel, and board members.
The board also held a public comment period on Resolution 2026-PC-15 before voting to forward it to the Starke County Commissioners for final approval.
