Anti-data center rally held in Grand Rapids
An anti-data center rally was held in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with attendees expressing concerns about water usage, light pollution, and property values. The rally-goers are pushing for a statewide moratorium on data center construction and the repeal of data center tax exemptions. Meanwhile, the Gaines Township Planning Commission is set to discuss a Microsoft data center proposal involving a rezoning application.
People across Michigan, including in Grand Rapids, held demonstrations over the weekend against data center developments. The rally in downtown Grand Rapids, which drew about 50 attendees, was organized by activist groups concerned about water usage and contamination, light pollution, impact on property values, and perceived broken promises from data center companies. Attendees called for politicians to pass legislation for a statewide moratorium on data center construction and to rescind data center tax exemptions.
Separately, the Gaines Township Planning Commission is scheduled to host a special meeting on Wednesday regarding a Microsoft data center proposal. The tech giant is looking to acquire additional land from Steelcase and is seeking a rezoning application for these new property boundaries. The meeting will take place at South Christian High School in Byron Center. While some communities like Door and Sollen Townships have already enacted temporary moratoriums, protestors emphasize the need for broader, statewide protection.