Microsoft data center MOU approved in St. Joseph County amid resident concerns

GRANGER, Ind. (WNDU) – City and county officials have approved a memorandum of understanding with Microsoft to begin early planning work for a proposed data center in Granger, even as nearby residents raised concerns about drainage, pollution, and a lack of community engagement.

The St. Joseph County Redevelopment Commission approved the MOU Tuesday morning, involving Microsoft, St. Joseph County, and the City of Mishawaka. The agreement covers pre-development work — not final construction — including early design and evaluation of water, sewer, and road infrastructure needed to support the project.

What the agreement covers

Under the MOU, Microsoft would pay for the preliminary work, with a project cap of approximately $12.6 million, according to county paperwork.

Bill Schalliol, St. Joseph County’s economic development director, said key questions about the project remain unanswered.

“There’s still a lot of questions that have to be answered with that project from a utility…