Independence official recalled over data center vote

News Clip0:44KCTV5 News·Independence, Jackson County, MO·9/7/2026

An Independence city official was recalled from his position due to his support for a large data center project. Despite the recall, the official maintains that the project underwent thorough scrutiny and has been a success for the city's economic development plans.

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Gov: City of Independence

An Independence city official, whose name was not disclosed in the report, was recalled from his position following his vote in support of a significant data center project. The official defended his decision, stating that the project aligned with the city's long-standing economic development plans, which designated the Blue Valley area for such growth since 1999.

The recalled official emphasized that the data center project underwent extensive scrutiny, research, and understanding before its approval. He maintained that the project "has worked out just fine" for the city, even acknowledging the interviewer's direct question about whether he still held this view despite his recall. His affirmation underscored his belief in the project's success and its benefit to the community.