In Saline Township, MI, community members are uniting against a proposed 2.2-million-square-foot data center backed by tech giants OpenAI and Oracle. Residents express concerns over light pollution, loss of farmland, and political processes they deem hasty. Roughly 45 residents gathered to strategize opposition, emphasizing the need for legal avenues to challenge the development. Key figures like Josh LeBaron and Jeff Rechten highlighted the uphill battle but affirmed a commitment to stall the project’s progress. The data center’s development, covering 575 acres, requires approval from the Michigan Public Service Commission, with DTE Energy anticipating $500 million in project upgrades. Opponents also cite environmental concerns regarding water use and air quality. Leaders stress unity among varied opposition reasons, insisting on a collective message: “No data center in Saline Township.” Community members remain vigilant as a critical commission hearing approaches, emphasizing the importance of local voice against large-scale industrial developments.
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