URGENT UPDATE: A proposed data center in Decatur Township is igniting fierce opposition from residents as it advances without a vote from the Indianapolis City-County Council. The project, spearheaded by developer Sabey, involves two large facilities located near Camby Road and Kentucky Avenue, and has raised significant concerns over rising utility costs and infrastructure strain.
Residents voiced their frustrations during a heated meeting on Thursday night, where they questioned CEO John Sabey directly. “You cannot fool me with that lingo,” one resident remarked, highlighting the tension in the room as the line of concerned citizens stretched across the auditorium. Sabey defended the project, claiming it could generate more than $20 million annually in property tax revenue and create hundreds of jobs.
However, the opposition is not solely focused on financial benefits. Grassroots group Protect Decatur Township emphasizes that rising electric bills and utility strains are uniting residents against the center. “It seems like electric bills are the main point of concern for people,” said Emma Hart, a member of the group. “That’s really united people across Decatur Township. People have already seen rising utilities over the course of the last couple of years.”
Unlike other recent data center projects in Indianapolis that required City-County Council approval due to zoning changes, this proposal is moving forward under existing industrial zoning. This means the decision now lies with the city’s Metropolitan Development Commission and a hearing examiner, significantly limiting the council’s involvement.
The project is anticipated to proceed to a vote on January 29, and township leaders have expressed the need for residents to voice their concerns directly to the developers. The meeting served as a platform for community members to seek clarity on the proposal, reflecting strong emotions surrounding the issue.
Residents are concerned that the data center will exacerbate existing issues with utility costs and infrastructure, with many feeling that their voices are being sidelined. The outcome of this project could have lasting implications for the community, further intensifying the debate over the balance between economic development and local quality of life.
As this situation develops, observers are urged to stay informed about the ongoing discussions. The community’s response may shape the future of Decatur Township, as residents rally together to address their worries over rising costs and infrastructure challenges.
The decision by the Metropolitan Development Commission could set a precedent for future developments in the area, making it crucial for residents to engage and express their views as this urgent matter unfolds.
