UPDATE: A proposed data center in Decatur Township is facing fierce opposition from local residents, who are alarmed by the project’s potential impact on utilities and infrastructure. This controversial development, led by data center company Sabey, is moving forward without a vote from the Indianapolis City-County Council, igniting community unrest.
The plan includes two large facilities situated near Camby Road and Kentucky Avenue. Because the land is already zoned for industrial use within the Decatur Technology Park, the developers do not require a rezoning vote. Instead, they are pursuing a variance, placing the decision in the hands of the city’s Metropolitan Development Commission and a hearing examiner.
Residents voiced their concerns during a heated meeting of the Decatur Township Civic Council on Thursday night, where they had the opportunity to directly question Sabey CEO John Sabey. “You cannot fool me with that lingo,” one resident challenged him, reflecting the growing frustration among community members.
Sabey defended the proposal, claiming it could generate over $20 million annually in property tax revenue once fully operational and create hundreds of jobs. “They can either believe us or not believe us,” Sabey said. “But we’re trying to do the best thing for this community and for us.”
However, many residents are skeptical. Members of the grassroots organization Protect Decatur Township argue that rising electric bills and infrastructure strain are the primary concerns uniting the community. “It seems like electric bills are the main point of concern for people,” said Emma Hart from 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.”
The township leaders held this meeting to facilitate a dialogue between residents and developers, acknowledging the strong emotions surrounding the proposal. Unlike previous data center projects in Indianapolis that required council approval due to zoning changes, this particular project’s industrial zoning limits the council’s involvement.
The project is now slated to move forward for consideration by the Metropolitan Development Commission, with a vote scheduled for January 29. Residents are urged to stay informed as tensions mount over this significant development.
As the community grapples with the potential impacts of the data center, the outcome of the upcoming vote could reshape the future of Decatur Township. Residents are encouraged to express their opinions and remain actively engaged in this urgent matter.
