Mason residents gather signatures to suspend M3 zoning ordinance, forcing council decision

Residents in Mason, Michigan have gathered enough signatures to put a controversial zoning ordinance that would allow for data centers up for a referendum vote, suspending the ordinance and forcing the city council to decide whether to repeal it or let voters weigh in this November. The Mason City Council is expected to decide tonight whether to repeal the M3 zoning ordinance - which restricts what a data center company could do if one were to come into the city - or leave the decision to voters. City Manager Deborah Stuart said that because the ordinance is now suspended, there are no additional protections in place if a data center were to move forward. Resident Susan Elliott said she supports having a zoning ordinance in place, but one that better reflects what the community wants - specifically, requiring data centers to obtain a special use permit rather than operating as a use by right. This sentiment has been a central concern for neighbors throughout this process. If the council chooses not to repeal the ordinance and the question goes to voters, the outcome could still leave the city with limited options. As the state of Michigan moves forward with building data centers, communities across the state are weighing their next steps - and residents in Mason are divided on the issue.