Monticello residents protest data center development; annexation decision postponed
Residents of Monticello and Jasper County protested at the Monticello City Hall meeting against the annexation of three land parcels due to concerns about a potential data center and lack of transparency. City officials ultimately voted to postpone the annexation decision until August.
Jasper County residents gathered at the Monticello City Hall meeting to protest the proposed annexation of three parcels of land from Jasper County into the city. Residents, including Kimberly Crowder, expressed strong opposition to the annexation, fearing it would pave the way for a data center project and citing a lack of transparency from city officials regarding the development.
Monticello City Council member Gail Herrell echoed concerns about proper procedures not being followed for the annexation hearings. The only person to speak in favor of the annexation was Adam McInness, owner of Southern Edge Realty and the broker for the land in question.
Following the public input, city officials voted to postpone the annexation of the three parcels until their August meeting. This decision indicates a delay in the process, allowing for further review and discussion on the controversial issue.