UPDATE: A critical vote is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. tonight that could transform Howell Township forever. The Board of Trustees will decide on a controversial proposal to rezone farmland near Marr and Fleming roads for a new $1 billion AI data center, which is planned to occupy 1,000 acres.
The decision comes amid growing concerns from residents who fear the project will severely strain local utilities and disrupt the community’s tranquility. Resident Richie Kamenski, who has lived in Howell for 17 years, expressed his frustration:
“I moved out here quiet, ya know, got out of the city to move here. Just retired and now I got me a data center. We don’t want it. Bottom line, we don’t want it.”
The proposed data center is backed by an undisclosed developer aiming to serve a Fortune 100 company. However, the project hinges on the township board’s approval of the rezoning. If approved, this could facilitate a significant industrial shift in the area, raising alarms about noise, pollution, and resource strain.
Local residents have voiced their concerns at multiple public meetings, with many like Aaron Currie questioning the project’s compatibility with the community:
“As answers started to be developed, it just didn’t look like a good fit for the Howell community.”
In defense of the project, attorney Mike Vogt, representing the developer, assured that measures are in place to mitigate potential impacts. He stated, “This thing is being designed and developed in a way to minimize any potential impacts.” The developer proposes a closed-loop water system to alleviate concerns over resource use, alongside a property value protection plan for nearby homeowners.
Homeowners living within 1,000 feet of the site would have the option to sell their homes to the developers for the appraised value plus 1%. A developer-funded escrow account would also cover legal fees for the township and residents should issues arise post-construction.
The meeting at the Rod Bushey Performing Arts Center is expected to draw significant public interest, as residents await the board’s decision that could reshape their community for years to come.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the vote unfolds.
