The Wayne County Commission took decisive action Thursday, voting unanimously (13-0) to override Executive Warren Evans’ veto of tax incentives for a new Google data center slated for Van Buren Township. While the vote clears the way for the tax abatements, commissioners stressed that the decision does not constitute an endorsement of the data center’s construction.
Background and vote details
Evans had rejected the proposed tax breaks on September 25, arguing that the incentives were not in the best interest of Wayne County residents. During the commission meeting, Commissioner Allen Wilson explained his change of heart after reviewing additional information. “Union folks will get opportunities to go to work, make some money,” Wilson said, noting that the project could provide meaningful employment for local workers.
Two commissioners were absent from the meeting, but the remaining members voted unanimously to overturn the executive’s decision. Wilson described the veto as putting the county “in a precarious situation,” suggesting that the tax incentives were essential to keep the project viable.
Project Cannoli details
The development, dubbed “Project Cannoli,” will occupy a 230‑acre site north of I‑94 between Haggerty Road and I‑275. The township approved the project earlier this year with a 5-2 vote on February 12. Van Buren Township Supervisor Kevin McNamara highlighted that the site has long been zoned for data‑center use and already possesses the necessary infrastructure.
McNamara also claimed the data center will help lower water rates for township residents. “We have the lowest water rates probably in Southeast Michigan. We will have the lowest rates for 10 years because of this project,” he said, noting that the facility will pay municipal water rates, which could drive down costs for local customers.
Executive’s perspective
In his veto statement, Evans emphasized the system of checks and balances in government. “I spelled out clearly my concerns with the tax abatements given to the Van Buren Township Data Center,” he wrote. “My job is to do what I think is best for Wayne County and its residents. The Commission I assume did what they thought was best. Now, we as a County must come together and make it work.”
Implications for the community
The tax incentives are intended to attract high‑tech jobs and stimulate economic growth in a region that has faced industrial decline. Supporters argue that the data center will bring well‑paid positions, increased tax revenue, and ancillary benefits to local businesses. Critics, however, remain wary of granting large tax breaks to a multinational corporation without clear guarantees of long‑term community benefits.
Wayne County residents will likely see the effects of the decision in the coming months as the project moves forward. The commission’s vote reflects a pragmatic approach: balancing fiscal responsibility with the desire to foster job creation and infrastructure improvements for families across the county.
Next steps
With the veto overridden, the county will proceed with the agreed‑upon tax abatements while continuing to monitor the project’s progress. Local officials have pledged to keep the public informed about any further developments, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the construction phase.
Original reporting: Warren | FOX 2 Detroit — read the source article.
