(La Porte County, IN) - A proposal downstate would make it easier for data centers and solar farms to go up on farm land.

 

Under House Bill 1333, local officials would have no authority to decide as long as data centers or solar farms meet the requirements for building on farm land.  The requirements include farm ground that is lower quality.

 

La Porte County Commissioner Joe Haney estimates about half of the farm land in the county would qualify for a data center without having to get local approval if the measure now in the senate is approved.  He’s urging people opposed to the idea to let their voices be heard.

 

“Reach out to your state senator,” he said.

 

So far, officials said no data centers have submitted any plans to build out in the county.  If any do, they will be directed to the Kingsbury Industrial Park, officials said.