Concerns raised over Saline data center construction proceeding without proper permits
The Oracle Saline Data Center in Michigan is under scrutiny for allegedly proceeding with construction activities without obtaining necessary environmental permits for wastewater discharge into the Saline River. Internal emails from EGLE officials show frustration over the developer's lack of required documentation, with accusations suggesting the Whitmer administration politically fast-tracked the project despite environmental concerns. The project involves discharging thousands of gallons of treated wastewater daily into the Saline River, potentially impacting water quality.
The Oracle Saline Data Center, known as "the Barn," is under scrutiny for allegedly proceeding with construction activities in Saline, Michigan, without obtaining the necessary environmental permits. A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by Michigan Enjoyer revealed that the developer, Related Digital, was warned by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) officials in August 2025 that proceeding with grading in unregulated areas without permits would be "at their own risk." This warning was acknowledged by project representative Patrick Harrington, who cited a need to maintain the construction schedule.
Despite these warnings and internal frustrations expressed by EGLE officials regarding incomplete documentation for wetland and stream-crossing permits, a wastewater-treatment plant drawing was submitted in October. Shortly after, Governor Gretchen Whitmer's Chief Operating Officer, Tricia Foster, connected Related executives directly with EGLE Director Phil Roos. Governor Whitmer then announced "Project Mitten" on October 30, and an undated letter from her supporting "Project Stargate" emphasized that "time is of the essence."
EGLE is currently reviewing a draft permit for the project, which would allow the discharge of 15,750 gallons of treated sanitary wastewater daily into the Saline River. The agency acknowledged that this discharge would increase pollutants and lower existing water quality for certain parameters. Critics question whether the data center received preferential treatment and political intervention from the Whitmer administration and EGLE, allowing construction to advance while critical water and environmental questions remained unresolved.