UPDATE: A proposed data center in Decatur Township is facing intense backlash from local residents, igniting concerns over rising utility costs and infrastructure strain. The controversial project, spearheaded by data center developer Sabey, aims to construct two large facilities on land near Camby Road and Kentucky Avenue, moving forward without a crucial vote from the Indianapolis City-County Council.
The Metropolitan Development Commission and a hearing examiner will decide the fate of the project, which is already zoned for industrial use as part of the Decatur Technology Park. This bypass of elected officials has fueled community unrest as residents seek a voice in the decision-making process.
Residents gathered at a Decatur Township Civic Council meeting on Thursday night, where they directly questioned Sabey CEO John Sabey. Tensions ran high as one resident challenged Sabey, stating, “You cannot fool me with that lingo.” The auditorium was filled with concerned citizens voicing their apprehensions about the development.
Sabey stated that the project could generate over $20 million in annual property tax revenue and create hundreds of jobs. “They can either believe us or not believe us,” he said. “But we’re trying to do the best thing for this community and for us.”
However, opposition is fierce. The grassroots group Protect Decatur Township has rallied residents around the issue of skyrocketing electric bills and the potential strain on local infrastructure. “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.”
Township leaders acknowledged the strong emotions surrounding the proposal, emphasizing the importance of community input. Unlike other recent data center projects in Indianapolis that required City-County Council approval due to zoning changes, this proposal circumvents that process, aggravating residents who feel their voices are being ignored.
The Metropolitan Development Commission will hold a hearing for the project, with a vote scheduled for January 29. Residents are urged to stay engaged as the situation develops, underscoring the urgent need for transparency and accountability from developers and local officials alike.
As the deadline approaches, community members are mobilizing to ensure their concerns are heard. The debate continues to escalate, reflecting broader issues of utility costs and infrastructure management in urban development. What happens next will significantly impact the future of Decatur Township and its residents.
