UPDATE: Residents of Washington Township are voicing fierce opposition to a proposed data center development that could transform 312 acres of land into a high-tech campus. The zoning meeting, held on Thursday night, was packed with community members who strongly oppose the 32 Mile Technical Campus project, proposed by California-based real estate company Prologis.
The Washington Township Zoning Board is currently considering a rezoning request to change the land from agricultural residential to industrial research technology. This proposed site is located south of 32 Mile Road and east of M-53. Residents expressed deep concerns over environmental impacts and the potential energy drain that the facility may cause.
During the meeting, resident James Eridon raised alarm about the project’s energy consumption, stating, “This is going to be a huge energy drain. So my concern is how are they going to manage that?” Concerns were echoed by Jacob Newby, who questioned the water usage plans for the data center. “I’m curious about if they’re planning to use the well water to cool the systems down or whether they’re planning to use village water,” he said.
Another local resident, Terry Templin, acknowledged the need for technological advancements but expressed discomfort with the project’s proximity to his home. “If it affects lives, people are going to be upset about that and I’m close enough to where it’s going to affect me,” he commented.
The urgency of the situation is heightened as the shift towards data centers in Michigan is driven by tax incentives and the expansion of artificial intelligence technologies. Prologis argues that these factors make the location desirable for such a development.
Officials from the township have attempted to assuage concerns, stating that the project will not require groundwater extraction and is not expected to increase water or sewer rates. However, community members remain skeptical. “There’s no stopping this growth,” Templin lamented.
The planning commission did not come to a decision at the meeting, and discussions will continue in early January 2024. The community’s strong opposition highlights the emotional impact and potential disruption such developments could bring to local residents.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed as this developing story continues to unfold. The voice of the community is crucial in shaping the future of Washington Township. Will the Zoning Board heed their concerns? Stay tuned for more updates.
