INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Google a week ago withdrew a rezoning proposal to build a data center in Marion County’s Franklin Township, following extensive discussions and conflicts with Indianapolis interests.

The Google data center had been expected to bring about 50 jobs to the area, but the project faced opposition and ultimately did not proceed.

Former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard on Monday commented on News 8 about the situation, emphasizing the importance of considering the number of jobs created by such projects and the incentives offered. Ballard expressed concerns about the incentives given to data centers across the country compared to the number of jobs they create.

He said local communities must decide where to place data centers, considering the utility aspects and community interests.

Ballard advised current Indianapolis leaders to focus on the number of jobs brought in when negotiating incentives for projects.

Despite Google’s withdrawal, another data center project may be starting in Indianapolis’ Martindale-Brightwood community, although it is still in its early stages with no formal petitions filed.

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