There were lots of questions about the data center being proposed for a thousand acres of farmland in Howell Township — most of which is owned by the Van Gilder family — but none of the experts at the Nov. 10 community event sponsored by the Van Gilders at Cleary University wanted to answer many of them.
If approved, the data center project will be the largest project in Livingston County history. It will encompass over a thousand acres of farmland, and the $1 billion initial capital investment will immediately take it the county’s largest taxpayer; it would also open the door for similar projects down the road. While proponents point to the financial benefits of the development, opponents cite concerns about rising electricity costs, the strain on the area’s water supply, as well as light and sound pollution.
Monday’s event included opportunities for attendees to speak with DTE, MHOG (the regional water system serving the property), the Livingston County Drain Commission, and the Van Gilder family.
Water usage by the data center was a big concern for those in attendance: What happens to the used water? Where will the used water be discarded? How will the data center affect surrounding water sources?
Attendees were also concerned about data center noise. Some worried that the Fowlerville schools being within the 5-mile radius organizers said would be able to hear the noise of the data center.
“I love Livingston County, I love Howell,” said a Howell resident. “But you know, it’s just so sad to see what has happened here in our community.”
“They’re pushing the farmers out, literally forcing them out,” said another Howell resident.
DTE and MHOG declined to provide on-the-record responses regarding energy sustainability or water usage.
Some in attendance said they were unable to get direct answers regarding water treatment. The responses they received from MHOG indicated that studies won’t be done until after the project gets preliminary approval.
The Howell Township Planning Commission showed the new conceptual site plan that was presented on Oct. 28, which showed fewer data center buildings initially, but included a section under a four-year plan to add more. The original site plan called for all buildings to be constructed at the same time
The data center plans call for a minimum 400-foot building setback on the northern development area on about 475 acres of land. The data center’s website says the setback “will help preserve the natural, rural characteristic of the area.”
The Howell Township Board meeting — rescheduled to accommodate what is expected to be a big crowd — is set for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at the Rod Bushey Performing Arts Center Howell High School Auditorium – 1200 W Grand River Ave.
Opponents of the data center are crossing their fingers for a six-month moratorium to be approved at that meeting, though there is no agenda posted as of this writing. You can check here for when the agenda and meeting packet are uploaded by the township. Opponents are hoping a moratorium will allow the township to craft ordinances they say are needed to protect itself and its taxpayers.
