Delhi Township Opposes Data Center Proposal Amid Community Concerns

Delhi Township opposes data center plans, ending LEAP membership, citing negative public input and community interests.
Delhi Township Opposes Data Center Proposal Amid Community Concerns

Amidst growing concerns over the potential establishment of a data center in Delhi Township, the Board of Trustees has scheduled an urgent meeting this Friday. The agenda features a resolution that firmly opposes such developments, a stance solidified by the township’s ongoing moratorium on data center proposals.

The proposed resolution articulates the board’s resistance, stating, “The Delhi Charter Township Board of Trustees hereby voices its official opposition to any data center development in the Township.” This declaration became public on Wednesday, alongside the announcement of the special meeting set for 5:30 p.m.

Further emphasizing the board’s position, the resolution references a promise by one of the developers, Tom Dorris, to abandon the project should the community reject it. The board now calls upon LEAP and Lighthouse Sustainability to honor this commitment given the significant public dissent.

The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) and Lighthouse Sustainability, a Colorado-based company, had announced their collaboration on exploring a data center possibility on a 423-acre parcel near College Road. Reports suggest the center could represent a $10 billion investment, potentially generating $53 million annually.

During a recent online public meeting, Dorris revealed plans for a 700-megawatt data center featuring six hours of battery storage, closed-loop cooling, and a 90-acre nature reserve. He also mentioned a $20 million community fund and free solar installations for local residents.

Delhi Township, responding to LEAP’s intentions, has terminated its LEAP membership. “Effective immediately, Delhi Township is ending our membership with the Lansing Economic Area Partnership,” Township Manager Tracy Miller announced, underscoring the township’s dedication to prioritizing community interests.

Prior communications from the township indicated their surprise at the data center proposal, which they learned of concurrently with the media. A 12-month ban on such projects remains in effect until April, as the township gathers public opinions.

In an effort to sway public sentiment before the moratorium concludes, LEAP and Lighthouse Sustainability have planned an extensive community engagement initiative over the next half-year.

The full details and implications of the proposed development can be explored further through the [official announcement](https://www.wkar.org/michigans-data-center-divide/2026-10-27/data-center-development-proposed-for-delhi-charter-township).Read more about the data center proposal.




A screenshot of an aerial photo of the potential site of a data center in Delhi Township that the Lansing Economic Area Partnership and Lighthouse Sustainability said they are partnering to explore.

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