Cass County to host educational session for local governments on data center policy framework
The event does not involve any proposed data center projects, nor does it signal plans to pursue data center development in Cass County. The session is not a public hearing and is not intended as a forum for advocacy, protest or public comment.
The Cass County Board of Commissioners and Cass County Planning Commission will host an informational session at 5 p.m. Thursday, March 26, focused on helping local governments understand policy and planning considerations related to data centers.
The session is educational in nature and is intended primarily for elected officials, planners, zoning administrators and other local government staff responsible for land use and regulatory decisions. The presentation is designed to help communities understand how data centers differ from other large-scale developments and what policy tools are available at the local level, particularly related to land use, infrastructure and regulatory considerations.
The event does not involve any proposed data center projects, nor does it signal plans to pursue data center development in Cass County. The session is not a public hearing and is not intended as a forum for advocacy, protest or public comment.
“The purpose of this session is to ensure local governments have accurate, practical information about their options,” said Jeremiah Jones, chair of the Cass County Board of Commissioners. “That includes understanding how communities can set clear expectations, establish safeguards or determine that certain types of development are not appropriate for their area.”
Topics will include:
- How data centers differ from other large-scale developments
- Land use, infrastructure and regulatory considerations
- Local policy tools available to communities, including options to limit or prohibit certain types of development
The session will take place in the Cass County Commissioners’ Chambers, 120 N. Broadway St., Cassopolis, MI 49031.
The public is welcome to attend and observe. To ensure the conversation moves efficiently, questions will be limited to in-person attendees, who will be asked to submit questions throughout the presentation.
The session will be livestreamed and available for later viewing here.
Related Articles
Cass County prosecutor criticizes commissioners over withdrawn pay step request; board approves home repair pilot letter
Cass County Prosecutor Victor Fitz also objected to comments made during a February 5 meeting suggesting raises should not be granted for superficial reasons.
“The meeting was ended with a humiliating commentary that we can’t give a raise to somebody just because ‘I like your pretty face’ or because they ‘look good,’” Prosecutor Victor Fitz said. “(Office Manager) Amanda Smego was absolutely humiliated by that, her family was humiliated, my office felt humiliated, and other persons who saw this unfold felt the same way.”
Fitz distributed a written list to commissioners outlining reasons he believes Smego deserves the proposed step increase.
Watershed Voice’s warming shelter resource list
As winter continues and temperatures stay unbearably cold, Watershed Voice has compiled a list of warming centers in St. Joseph and Cass counties. If you know of any additional resources, please share them with maxwell@watershedvoice.com so they can be added to this list.
Watershed Voice holiday resource guide
Last week Kalamazoo, Sturgis, and Three Rivers had city commission meetings. In all three meetings, independent of each other, homelessness and ways the city can address it was discussed. As the holidays approach and cold weather continues, Watershed Voice compiled a list of all the resources available for those who need it most in St. Joseph, Cass, and Kalamazoo counties.
This guide lists shelter, warming, food and crisis resources available during the holiday period. Availability and capacity can change quickly, especially during extreme weather.
