Vote delayed on $52M tax incentive package for Metrobloks data center
A vote on a proposed $52.6 million tax incentive package for Metrobloks' planned data center in Indianapolis' Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood has been postponed. Residents and the Black Church Coalition are seeking greater community input and opposing the use of public funds, while city officials say the incentives could generate long-term tax revenue and neighborhood benefits.
The Metropolitan Development Commission postponed a vote on tax incentives for Metrobloks, a California-based developer planning a data center near 25th and Sherman streets in Indianapolis' Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood. Metrobloks received approval to build the facility in April and is seeking incentives estimated to save the company $52.6 million; a future tenant could qualify for nearly $129 million more in tax savings.
Residents and the Black Church Coalition, represented in the report by Mat Davis, said the neighborhood has not had sufficient input into negotiations over community benefits and questioned whether the project's financial gains would outweigh its effects. Proposed benefits include jobs, park improvements, home repairs, affordable-housing funding and community grants. The mayor's office supports the incentives, while Indy Economic Development said it would continue providing information before the commission revisits the proposal, expected Nov. 18.