After Whitmer's Saline Data Center Controversy, Michigan Lawmaker Calls for Statewide Pause on New Projects

LANSING , Mich. – A Michigan lawmaker wants to put the brakes on all new data center projects across the state for one year while officials study their impact on communities, power grids, water supplies, and local infrastructure.

The proposal comes after growing backlash over large data center projects in communities including Saline, Howell, and Mason, where residents have raised concerns about energy use, water consumption, and the loss of farmland.

State Sen. Jim Runestad has introduced legislation that would temporarily halt approvals for new data center developments until state officials can take a closer look at their long-term effects.

The debate is drawing attention in Flint, where officials are considering a proposed data center on approximately 200 acres of the former Buick City site.

Supporters say data centers bring investment and tax revenue. Critics argue Michigan should understand the full impact before approving more projects.

Question for Flint Talk readers:
Should Flint officials visit communities that already host large data centers to see the real-world impacts before making a decision on the former Buick City site?