Kokomo council taps public works committee to study data‑center guidelines and possible moratorium

The Kokomo Common Council voted to assign review of potential moratorium measures and updated guidelines for high‑impact properties, including data centers, to its standing Public Works and Improvements Committee rather than a temporary subcommittee.

Council President said the city will use the existing Public Works and Improvements Committee, which the meeting record shows is chaired by Councilman Jeff Plow with Councilwoman Crystal Sandburn and Councilman Dave Capshaw as members. Councilman Plow reported he had contacted Indianapolis officials to review their guidance for data centers, and the council said it wants to examine planning commission rules and establish new guidelines applicable to any future high‑impact businesses.

The president indicated the committee and planning commission work could take several months, with a rough expectation that updated guidelines may be available "maybe August or so," a timeline described in the meeting as approximate. The council did not adopt formal moratorium language or specific regulatory changes at the meeting; it directed the committee to study the issue and return recommendations for council consideration.

The council adjourned after confirming the committee assignment and other routine business.