A four billion dollar neighbor plans to move in to Decatur Township

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Development Commission has granted final approval for a $4 billion data center campus to be built in Decatur Township, a decision that ended months of contentious debate. The Sabi Corporation, the developer behind the project, secured the necessary vote during a regular commission meeting. The approval sparked strong reactions, with some, like John Hooker of the Central Indiana Building Trades Council, celebrating it as a victory for job growth, anticipating hundreds of short and long-term positions. However, the group "Protect Decatur Township," led by founder Randy Berryman, expressed defeat and vowed to pursue a legal battle through a judicial review. Berryman highlighted concerns for future generations and environmental impacts, particularly regarding water resources. Republican Councilor Joshua Bains, while supporting the plan and dismissing water impact worries, acknowledged residents' dissatisfaction with the process. Residents were upset that the project proceeded via a petition for variance of use rather than a full rezoning, despite the land already being zoned for light industrial use. Opponents are now moving forward with their planned judicial review at the City County building.