Lowell Township Crafts Ordinance to Govern $1 Billion Microsoft Data Center

Lowell Township in Michigan is drafting an ordinance to govern a potential $1 billion Microsoft data center project. The Planning Commission's advisory committee, formed in May, has been working on a first draft for three weeks.

Chair Dave Simmonds warned the public that it will take 'quite a long time' to finalize the ordinance, which must be approved by both the planning commission and township board.

The data center's environmental impact is a key concern, with resident Julie Echtinaw pointing out issues related to outdoor lighting and water usage. She emphasized the importance of transparency in the process, citing concerns about Microsoft's honesty with surrounding communities.