Benton Harbor mayor welcomes data centers

Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad is proactively inviting data center developments to his southwest Michigan city, emphasizing the region's ample water resources as a key advantage for the water-intensive industry. This initiative comes amidst growing concerns over data center impacts, highlighted by Marshall County, Indiana, which recently became the first county in Indiana to enact a complete ban on such facilities. Mayor Muhammad expressed confidence that Benton Harbor could accommodate data centers without compromising water quality or environmental health, stating, "I'm willing to be a drum major in that going out front. Not to do something harmful to the community or pollute this area." He has engaged in discussions with Michigan State Rep. Joey Andrews regarding Benton Harbor's potential as a data center hub and plans to attend an international conference in Ontario, Canada, to learn about protecting water and energy infrastructure in relation to data center growth. However, the proposal faces local skepticism. Benton Harbor residents, such as Isaac Walters and Keith Masipa, voiced concerns about the city's small population handling increased demands, potential tax hikes, and the environmental impact on the "holistic nature of our town." Despite this, Mayor Muhammad believes that with proper studies and inter-governmental agreements, Benton Harbor could serve as a model for responsible data center integration.