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3h ago

Howell Township Weighs Rezoning for 1,000-Acre Data Center as Residents Pack Meeting

Officials cite $20 million to $30 million in annual tax revenue estimates.

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A proposal to build a massive data center on more than 1,000 acres of farmland in Livingston County has sparked intense community debate, with residents set to voice their concerns at a township meeting Tuesday evening.

Overview

  • Rezoning remains pending after a high-turnout planning commission meeting was moved to Howell High School and public comment stretched for hours.
  • The project spans more than 1,000 acres on Van Gilder Farms near Grand River Avenue and Fleming Road and is described as what would be Michigan’s largest data center.
  • The corporate buyer has not been confirmed, with local reports pointing to Meta or an unnamed Fortune 100 technology firm.
  • Supporters emphasize construction employment, with a local IBEW member estimating roughly 1,000 jobs, and township leaders have toured Ohio data-center hubs during their review.
  • Residents voice concerns about heavy water and power needs, potential noise and loss of rural character, and they call for clearer details before any land-use change.