Fort Wayne official asks councilman to reconsider data center-related resolutions
A Fort Wayne City Council member has proposed legislation to create a task force and increase transparency regarding a Google data center's environmental and community impacts. A Community Development official has asked the council member to reconsider the resolutions due to a lack of prior consultation. The resolutions aim to address resident concerns about the data center's effects on water, electricity, and the environment.
Fort Wayne City Councilman Russ Jehl has introduced several resolutions concerning a Google data center, including one to establish a "Data Center & Quality of Life+ Task Force." This task force would advise city officials on environmental and community issues stemming from the data center's development, as well as engage with residents to address their concerns. The proposed legislation also seeks information on Google's local investment following approved tax breaks and mandates a report on the use of funds from the property's sale.
Community Development Director Jonathan Leist has urged Councilman Jehl to reconsider the resolutions, noting that they were drafted without input from him, his staff, or Councilwoman Rohli Booker, who represents the affected southeast Fort Wayne area. Leist maintained that Google has fulfilled its commitments under the tax agreement, having invested over $3.5 billion and created 85 full-time jobs, exceeding the initial requirements. Conversely, Jehl asserts that Google has not invested as promised and that the public and council members have sought answers on environmental impacts, water and electricity usage, and potential "forever chemicals" for months without meaningful engagement.
The proposed task force would consist of 12 members, with appointments from the mayor, City Council, and the Southeast Area Partnership, drawing expertise from city departments, engineering, utilities, and environmental resources. Jehl has expressed openness to delaying action on his resolutions if it facilitates greater collaboration with city officials. The resolutions are scheduled for discussion at an upcoming City Council meeting.