CLINTON COUNTY, Ind. (October 7, 2025) – County commissioners convened Monday, confirming that a highly controversial vote regarding a proposed data center development will be postponed until mid-November, despite significant public presence at the meeting. Commissioners stated they need additional time to complete individual research and fact-finding regarding the proposal as well as not all commissioners were present.
Public comment was dominated by residents expressing strong opposition and frustration over the lack of a decision and the absence of a third commissioner, commissioners president Jordan Brewer.
Katelyn Greeno delivered 53 signed affidavits, claiming the signees attest to the claims under penalty of perjury. The resident emphasized the concept of “public good,” arguing that the government cannot approve a project that goes against the community’s well-being or customs.
Another resident, Nathaniel Webb, warned that the data center would result in “more harm than good” economically, creating an eyesore, increasing litter and traffic, and ultimately scaring away high-means residents who might otherwise invest in the county. He suggested that the proposal is based purely on hype and lacks tangible value.
MaryLynn Peter, another outspoken resident, questioned why the developer has not disclosed the identity of the project’s end-user, noting that an NDA (non-disclosure agreement) is associated with the project. She suggested the end-user could be entities such as Google, Amazon, or even China, and urged commissioners to research the developer, Mr. (Doug) Swain, alleging he is providing “spin stories”.
Commissioner Bert Weaver responded to criticism by stating that he is committed to studying both sides of the issue and represents 35,000 people, not just those present to voice opposition. The commissioners reiterated that they will take their 90 days to conduct due diligence and will post the item on the official agenda when it is ready for discussion and a vote. Residents were advised to check the county’s official websites (clintonco.com or clintoncountyin.gov) for official meeting agendas, rather than relying on social media groups like Facebook.
Emergency Actions Taken
In immediate action, the commissioners approved an executive order issuing a county-wide burn ban. Renee Crick, the Director of EMA and Central Dispatch, reported dry conditions persist, with limited forecast relief. Since October 1st, the county has recorded 17 fires, including six grass fires and nine illegal burns. The burn ban was approved by a 2-0 vote as Executive Order Number 2025-01, effective until rescinded by the commission.
In other EMA-related business, the commissioners approved a motion for $2,000 to complete concrete work at the county’s training center, a facility recently used for grain engulfment and propane training. They also approved the donation of a 2005 Chevy Malibu with flat tires to the firefighter training class for extrication practice.
Annex Move-in Scheduled
The county is preparing to move staff into the new annex building. The anticipated target date for moving office staff is October 20th, with moving activities scheduled through October 31st.
Stephen Deckard, director of EMS, announced that Active Shooter training will be conducted for staff members on October 17th-19th, with a repeat session scheduled for October 31st-November 2nd, involving the Sheriff’s Office, Frankfort Police, and Fire Departments. Frankfort Police will host the October 17th classroom session while Rossville Schools will host the October 18th and October 19th. Deckard is working with the Community School of Frankfort to secure a location for the November 1st and 2nd dates.
The next scheduled regular meeting for the commissioners is October 21st.
