BREAKING: A proposed data center in Decatur Township is igniting intense opposition from residents as it progresses without a critical vote from the Indianapolis City-County Council. The controversial project, spearheaded by developer Sabey, involves the construction of two substantial facilities near Camby Road and Kentucky Avenue.
Residents are expressing urgent concerns over potential impacts on utilities and infrastructure, particularly as the project is set to advance without a council vote due to existing industrial zoning. Instead, the decision will shift to the Metropolitan Development Commission and a hearing examiner, with a vote anticipated on January 29.
During a heated meeting on Thursday night, community members directly confronted Sabey CEO John Sabey, questioning the project’s implications. One resident voiced frustration, stating, “You cannot fool me with that lingo,” highlighting the growing tension among locals.
Sabey defended the development, claiming 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,” Sabey remarked, emphasizing the project’s potential benefits for the community and the region.
However, dissenters from the grassroots group Protect Decatur Township argue that the focus should be on rising electric bills and the strain on local infrastructure. Emma Hart, a member of the group, stated, “It seems like electric bills are the main point of concern for people. That’s really united people across Decatur Township.”
The township’s leaders facilitated the meeting to allow residents to voice their concerns directly, acknowledging the strong emotions surrounding the proposal. Unlike other recent data center initiatives in Indianapolis that required council approval due to zoning modifications, this proposal’s existing industrial zoning allows it to bypass that process.
Residents are rallying as the project heads to the Metropolitan Development Commission, urging officials to reconsider the implications for their community. With the vote approaching on January 29, the situation is developing rapidly, and community members are mobilizing to make their voices heard.
Stay tuned for further updates as this significant local issue unfolds.
