Black Church Coalition demands halt to incentives for data centers
The Black Church Coalition in Indianapolis is demanding a halt to incentives for the Metrobloks data center project in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood, threatening political action against city officials who support it. This follows the Indianapolis Metropolitan Development Commission's approval of the data center's rezoning despite significant public opposition and ongoing calls for a judicial review.
In Indianapolis, the Black Church Coalition, a group of local clergy, has intensified its opposition to the Metrobloks data center development in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood, calling for an end to all city incentives for the project. Coalition leaders claim Mayor Joe Hogsett's office has repeatedly ignored their requests for a meeting, leading them to warn that lack of access could impact campaign support in the upcoming mayoral race.
Despite heavy public opposition, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Development Commission approved the rezoning for the Metrobloks data center on April 1. Critics cite concerns over noise and environmental impacts, preferring other types of community development. Councilmember Ron Gibson, a project supporter, stated the data center is a "done deal" and is currently negotiating tax abatements, with Metrobloks offering a potential $20 million investment in affordable housing and infrastructure.
However, Pastor Fitz Lyons, Jr. of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church expressed skepticism about the promised $20 million, questioning its true benefit to the community regarding jobs and food access. A group of Martindale-Brightwood residents, alongside the Hoosier Environmental Council, has initiated a call for a judicial review of the rezoning decision. Mayor Hogsett's office has declined to comment due to the pending litigation.