Kokomo considers zoning change allowing data centers on industrial sites

KOKOMO, Ind. (WRTV) – Kokomo officials are considering a zoning change to allow data centers on industrial land.

The Kokomo Plan Commission on Aug. 17 voted five-to-one to support an amendment making data centers an allowed use for industrial properties. The Kokomo Common Council Monday will introduce the ordinance and expects to vote in September.

The proposal allows data centers on industrial sites and within parts of the U.S. 31 overlay district on the city’s east side. Officials previously designated that area for future office, industrial and limited retail development.

The amendment requires data centers to be at least 200 feet from residential districts and 300 feet from any home. Unlike Indianapolis, Kokomo is not adding stricter noise or utility regulations.

Mayor Tyler Moore, a Republican, said the commission must still review site plans. If a project involves an economic development agreement, the council must approve any requirements for the developer.

Moore said an engineering firm, commission members, council members and the city’s development director helped draft the ordinance.

In March, residents voiced concerns about data centers when the city added hundreds of acres of Howard County farmland for industrial use. Moore said there was no indication then that a data center would happen on the property, but he said developers have since shown interest in the county.

The ordinance also expands property types for schools, shooting ranges and multifamily housing.

The Common Council Monday at 6 p.m. will meet at Kokomo City Hall, 100 S. Union St.