New Buffalo Township moves to pause data centers

New Buffalo Township officials in Michigan have enacted a one-year moratorium on data center development following a special meeting on April 8. The resolution temporarily halts the issuance of permits, licenses, or approvals for data centers, providing the township with time to review and potentially revise its existing zoning ordinances. The proactive measure comes in response to the recent sale of a 114-acre parcel at 19701 Kluver Road to an entity reportedly connected to the "Project Maize" data center under development in nearby Michigan City, Indiana. While no formal data center proposal has been submitted for the Kluver Road site, officials noted that its industrial zoning currently permits such use. Township Supervisor Michelle Heit, Clerk Michelle Hannon, and Treasurer Patty Iazzetto emphasized the need for a thoughtful approach to development. Residents and officials have voiced concerns regarding the compatibility of large-scale data centers with the township's character, its proximity to residential and recreational areas like Whittaker Woods, and the potential strain on local infrastructure, particularly municipal water and sewer systems. There are also broader environmental concerns about electricity consumption, water usage, noise, light, and air pollution. The moratorium is intended to allow the township to develop appropriate regulations before any formal proposals for data centers are advanced.