URGENT UPDATE: A proposed data center in Decatur Township is igniting fierce backlash from residents, as the project advances without a vote from the Indianapolis City-County Council. This contentious development, spearheaded by data center developer Sabey, includes plans for two massive facilities near Camby Road and Kentucky Avenue.
Residents are alarmed not only by the potential impact on local utilities and infrastructure but also by the lack of council oversight. The property is already zoned for industrial use as part of the Decatur Technology Park, allowing the project to bypass traditional rezoning procedures. Instead, the decision now lies with the city’s Metropolitan Development Commission and a hearing examiner, raising concerns over transparency and community involvement.
At a heated meeting of the Decatur Township Civic Council on Thursday night, attendees confronted Sabey CEO John Sabey directly. One resident declared, “You cannot fool me with that lingo,” highlighting the growing frustration among locals. Sabey defended the project, stating it could generate over $20 million annually in property tax revenue and create hundreds of jobs. “They can either believe us or not believe us,” he insisted. “But we’re trying to do the best thing for this community and for us.”
However, the grassroots group Protect Decatur Township argues that the debate extends far beyond economic benefits. Rising electric bills and concerns about infrastructure strain are rallying residents against the proposal. Emma Hart, a group member, emphasized, “It seems like electric bills are the main point of concern for people. That’s really united people across Decatur Township.” Many residents have already been grappling with increased utility costs over the past few years, making the stakes feel even higher.
Township leaders hosted the meeting to provide a platform for community members to voice their concerns directly to developers and local officials. The emotions surrounding the proposal were palpable, reflecting the urgency and importance of the issue for many families in the area.
Unlike other recent data center projects in Indianapolis that required City-County Council approval due to zoning changes, this proposal’s existing industrial zoning diminishes the council’s role in the decision-making process. With the project now set to proceed to the Metropolitan Development Commission, a crucial vote is scheduled for January 29.
As the date approaches, residents are urged to remain engaged and informed. The outcome of this decision could have significant long-term implications for both the community and the region. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as locals continue to advocate for their voices to be heard.
