Marshall Co. Passes Data Center Ban
Published: Friday, May 1, 2026
Marshall County Commissioners last week approved a measure prohibiting data center development, marking the first lifelong ban on such facilities in Indiana.
The decision, approved at the April 20 meeting, follows a yearlong moratorium on large-scale industrial projects that has now evolved into permanent restrictions targeting certain sectors. Officials cited concerns about the long-term impact of energy-intensive computing facilities on electricity and water supplies, as well as the potential loss of productive farmland.
Preserving agricultural stability played a central role in the vote, with leaders aiming to prevent large tracts of fertile land from being converted into industrial use. Residents showed strong support for limiting expansion, reinforcing officials' commitment to maintaining the area's rural character.
In addition to the data center ban, commissioners introduced strict regulations for other energy developments. Battery energy storage systems must now be set back at least 1,320 feet from property lines. Proposed rules would also limit solar energy projects to a maximum of five acres, with final deliberations scheduled for at the next commissioners' meeting Monday, May 4.
While rejecting large technology hubs, county leaders signaled openness to smaller-footprint energy projects, including natural gas facilities and modular nuclear reactors. Officials indicated a preference for established, reliable technologies over newer approaches that may quickly become outdated.
Local leaders acknowledged potential tension with state officials advocating for expanded energy infrastructure but maintained that community priorities would guide future development decisions.
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