The City Planning Commission in Detroit is working on a proposal to regulate data center developments in the city. This effort follows a series of meetings by a cross-sector data center working group convened by City Councilman Scott Benson.

Background

Benson aims to have the data center zoning policy approved by Detroit’s City Council by December 31. The policy effort is underway, with city planning and building officials determining what types of small-scale facilities are already operating in Detroit.

Erma Leaphart, a retired conservation organizer, noted that understanding the number of existing data centers, their energy and water usage, and other impacts is important. City Planning Commission Director Marcell Todd stated that while some facilities function as data centers, Detroit is not currently positioned to accommodate hyperscale developments.

Community Involvement

Benson believes the process has been transparent and welcoming, with the first meeting having about 40 attendees. The workgroup includes representatives from environmental groups, DTE Energy, the city’s planning commission, and other stakeholders.

A Detroit advocacy group has raised concerns about the working group’s makeup and meeting structure, arguing it lacks inclusivity and transparency. Benson encourages residents to get involved in the policy-making process, which will include public hearings and community engagement.

Separately, residents on Detroit’s east side have convened discussions on ways to slow data center development or minimize potential harm to city neighborhoods. The Eastside Community Network is working to educate residents on the economic, environmental, and health impacts of data centers.

Original reporting: BridgeDetroit — read the source article.