LaPorte County leaders are considering a new ordinance to limit where data centers can be built, aiming to address community concerns.

The proposal was discussed at a recent Board of Commissioners meeting, which drew a large turnout.

The ordinance would restrict data centers to industrially zoned areas to keep them away from homes and protect local resources like wells.

Commission Vice President Steve Holifield said the county wants to balance the tax benefits of data centers with community safety and consent.

Commissioner Joe Haney added that the plan would create “guardrails” to ensure the facilities are built in the right locations.