'Bait and switch': Potential for Kalamazoo data center draws neighbors to speak at city meeting
Residents in Kalamazoo are expressing significant concerns over a proposal to convert a marijuana grow facility, Harbor Farms, into a small-scale data center. Neighbors are worried about resource usage, quality of life issues like noise pollution, and the financial impact. The City of Kalamazoo has stated that existing zoning was interpreted to allow this potential use, with any project requiring a site plan review.
Residents in Kalamazoo are voicing strong opposition to a potential data center project that would convert an existing marijuana grow facility, Harbor Farms, into a small-scale data center. Neighbors expressed concerns at a city meeting, with many describing the situation as a "bait and switch."
Local neighborhood reporter Julie Dunmeyer highlighted that community members are primarily worried about three areas: resource usage (including water and electricity), quality of life impacts such as noise pollution, and the financial implications for the area. One resident noted the proposed site on Full Circle Drive is only 1.1 miles from a middle school, adding to their concerns.
The City of Kalamazoo addressed the situation, explaining that the property's owner approached the city in March 2026 about the conversion. City leadership clarified that the property was not rezoned for this purpose; rather, the existing zoning was interpreted to allow for a potential data center. They also assured that any data center development would still be subject to a thorough site plan review process.