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Residents press commission on homelessness and ask for data-center moratorium; officials plan work sessions
Summary
Residents urged action on safety and sanitation near Snowberry Heights and asked the commission to consider a temporary moratorium on data centers. Commissioners acknowledged the concerns, promised further study and a forthcoming work session on data centers, and said homelessness requires multi-jurisdictional responses.
Dozens of residents and business managers spoke during two public-comment periods at the July 13 Marquette City Commission meeting, pressing the commission for action on homelessness-related safety concerns and asking for proactive action on potential data-center development.
Snowberry Heights residents described repeated fires, camping and makeshift latrines along a nearby bike path and said they regularly find syringes and other hazardous litter. Jane Russell, who identified herself as living at 222 South 5th (Snowberry Heights), said "there is approximately 190 people that reside there" and asked the city to work with partners to reduce risks.
Business owners and managers reported related impacts. Alan St. Aubin, who identified himself as working at the BP on Washington Street, said repeated police calls and lingering loitering have driven customers away. Elizabeth Blackson, BP store manager, told the commission that rules around the social district and container requirements are unclear and that staff need clearer enforcement support.
Several speakers urged compassionate approaches. Daisy Ray Nelson (affiliated with Room at the Inn) recommended public bathrooms and services rather than punitive responses. Richard Lewis Abbott (Room at the Inn resident) asked that people not be dehumanized, saying "we are human beings and deserve respect."
On land-use concerns, Mark Jamrozek (410 East Ohio) urged the commission to consider a moratorium on data centers, citing examples of noise and neighborhood disruption in other jurisdictions and asking commissioners to disclose any contacts or non-disclosure agreements related to data-center discussions.
Commissioners responded that the issues raised are urgent but complex. Commissioner Mayer and others thanked speakers and said they plan further conversation; several commissioners said staff have been asked to study data centers and that a public work session is being scheduled to share information. The city manager noted limits on municipal funding for nonprofits and emphasized the need for county, state and nonprofit involvement to address homelessness. The city manager said staff will provide a foundational informational presentation when the work session is scheduled.
Why it matters: Residents described immediate safety, sanitation and economic concerns that affect seniors, nearby businesses and public use of bike paths. Commissioners acknowledged the need for both compassionate services and public-safety responses and signaled additional study and public engagement ahead.
