Debate Over Data Center Approvals in Midland and Bay City, Michigan

The construction of large-scale data centers in Michigan is being debated as at least 10 counties have seen developers unveil plans for hyperscale data centers. These centers require significant investment and job creation to qualify for tax breaks passed last year that exempt them from the state's 6% sales tax.

Despite potential economic benefits, proposals face opposition due to environmental concerns and low permanent job creation. Currently, there are no developers proposing data centers in Midland or Bay City.

In Midland, any proposed data center would need a conditional land use permit, requiring about 90 days for approval through a public hearing. In Bay City, data centers would go through a standard site plan review if they exceed 3,000 square feet, with the planning commission likely obligated to approve if zoning requirements are met. The feasibility of a data center in Bay City depends on the availability of suitably sized properties.