St. Joseph County Landowner's Private Data Center Interest Revealed
A St. Joseph County landowner, Brent Burkus, publicly opposed a recreational trail, citing a desire to continue farming. However, a recorded conversation revealed Burkus discussing selling 400 acres of his land for a data center, creating a contradiction in his public stance. This revelation comes as the county council has paused the trail plan, putting $40 million in state funding at risk.
Brent Burkus, owner of Blad Farms in St. Joseph County, Indiana, publicly opposed the Midwest Continental Divide Trail Plan, advocating for farming and raising concerns about eminent domain. His efforts contributed to the county council's decision to pause the project, which now risks losing $40 million in state funding.
However, a recording obtained by the 16 News Now I-Team revealed Burkus privately discussing selling 400 acres for a data center during an April 22 meeting with project and county leaders. On the tape, Burkus stated, "But if I want to sell 400 acres for a data center, sure. With the money they’re offering nowadays, given the farming community, what’s going on? Sure. I’m gone." When confronted, Burkus attributed the comments to frustration, denying any immediate plans for a data center on his property and reaffirming his desire to farm.
Shawn Peterson, a consultant for the trail project, expressed concern that misinformation could derail the initiative, clarifying that eminent domain is rarely used for trails in Indiana and that participation is voluntary. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions over land use in St. Joseph County. Local leaders, including St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners President Carl Baxmeyer, are discussing how to proceed, with the potential loss of state funding adding urgency to the situation.