Shelbyville Mayor Scott Furgeson has issued a public apology after a viral video surfaced showing him making remarks about renters and housing conditions, prompting backlash from residents and renewed debate over a proposed data center project.

Apology and Controversy

The mayor released a follow-up apology video in which he said he was “ashamed” of his comments, which were captured in a video that spread widely on social media two weeks earlier. According to reports, the original video showed Furgeson holding a “No Data Centers” sign while speaking with residents during a public interaction.

In the clip, Furgeson made comments referencing housing conditions and renters, including language that drew criticism from community members after the video circulated online. Residents and advocacy groups said the remarks were inappropriate, while the mayor initially responded with a written statement saying he regretted that his words “may have caused offense,” without issuing a full apology at that time.

In a subsequent video released Wednesday, Furgeson took responsibility for his comments. “I take full responsibility for what I said. I sincerely apologize to all of you,” Furgeson said in the recording. He also described his remarks as “disrespectful,” “hurtful,” and “wrong,” and said he was “ashamed” of his actions.

Data Center Project

The controversy is unfolding alongside an ongoing dispute over a proposed data center development in Shelbyville. The project would convert approximately 429 acres of farmland into an 11-building data center complex, according to prior reports. The proposal has generated opposition from residents, with more than 2,000 signatures collected on a petition opposing the development.

The city council advanced the proposal in April despite community opposition. The broader debate over data center development has also appeared in other Indiana communities, including Pittsboro, Henry County, Decatur Township in Indianapolis, Morgan County, and the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood.

City officials have not indicated whether the controversy surrounding the mayor’s remarks will affect ongoing discussions about the data center project. The proposal remains under consideration as community feedback continues.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.