March 23rd, 2026 City Council Meeting

The City of Lansing, Michigan City Council held a meeting on March 23, 2026, which included extensive public commentary and council discussion primarily focused on the proposed sale of city property for the development of the Deep Green Data Center. The data center project, involving a $120 million investment and a purchase price of $1.4 million for a city-owned parking lot, was presented by Deep Green representatives who emphasized its environmental commitments, including a closed-loop cooling system and use of solid oxide fuel cells to reduce emissions. The project promises approximately 15 permanent jobs, significant tax revenue, and community benefits such as funding for low-income energy customers and support for the fire department. However, the proposal faced substantial opposition from community members and activists citing concerns about environmental impact, noise pollution, water usage, lack of transparency, and the project's fit within the city's development plans. The council also discussed budget allocations, including proposed additions of firefighters and public safety personnel funded potentially by revenues from the data center. Other procurement-related items included a special land use permit and rezoning for a shelter care facility at 332 Townsend Street, which were approved. Additionally, the council considered ordinances related to parking regulations and rejected recommended pay raises for elected officials. The meeting concluded with referrals of various grant acceptances, appointments, and other city business.