Detroit community group launches study of data center development: ‘It’s really important that we do this soon’

The Eastside Community Network (ECN), a Detroit-based nonprofit, has embarked on a study to craft policy recommendations for data center development, responding to community anxieties over such projects. This effort follows a recent Detroit City Council resolution that urged Mayor Mary Sheffield and city departments to temporarily halt data center permits and called for a two-year moratorium to assess health and environmental risks. Mayor Sheffield's office confirmed no final decision has been made regarding the moratorium. The community group is organizing a biweekly study group, beginning in May, to educate east side residents on the economic, environmental, and health impacts of data centers. Their objective is to present a comprehensive set of community recommendations to city and state officials by the end of summer. Attorney Andrew Bashi of the Great Lakes Environmental Law Center highlighted concerns over potential data center sites, referencing a brownfield on Shoemaker Street with a history of severe environmental contamination. Residents like Rose Jones of the District 4 Community Advisory Council and Sarita Steele of the Ravendale neighborhood expressed urgency, emphasizing the need to protect local land, air, and residents from further industrial burden. Experts at the town hall outlined significant water usage, air, and noise pollution associated with data centers. The discussions also brought up broader regulatory efforts, including a Michigan House of Representatives bill proposing a statewide data center moratorium until April 2027 and a citywide working group convened by District 3 Councilmember Scott Benson to fast-track a data center-focused zoning policy. Recommendations from experts and community members include establishing specific zoning categories for data centers, prohibiting open-loop cooling systems, demanding greater transparency from developers, and securing strong financial assurances through bonds. These measures aim to prevent a repeat of past developments, such as the Stellantis Mack Assembly Plant, where residents felt their concerns were overlooked.