Kansas residents launch ballot fight over planned 300-acre tech campus, data center, and gas plant

Residents in Ottawa, Kansas, have initiated a ballot petition to challenge a proposed 300-acre development by Lightfield Energy LLC, which is slated to include data centers and a natural gas power plant. The Ottawa City Commission previously approved a $5.3 million land sale to Lightfield Energy for the Proximity Park site in December 2024.

Spearheaded by Franklin County resident Jessica Christopher, the proposed ordinance aims to prevent the city from permitting or constructing any data center that consumes over 25 megawatts of power. Franklin County Clerk Janet Paddock has approved the ordinance for circulation, with Ottawa United seeking 600 verified signatures within a 20-day window. If successful, the Ottawa City Commission will have 20 days to adopt the measure, or it will proceed to a November ballot vote.

Opposition, described as bipartisan by organizers Michael Lewis and Jessica Christopher, centers on a perceived lack of transparency from the city regarding negotiations with Lightfield Energy. Residents express significant concerns about the environmental impact, noise pollution, and high electricity demand associated with data centers and the proposed 440-megawatt gas plant.

City Manager Thatcher Moddie reiterated the city's commitment to a transparent development process, but as of July 1, Lightfield Energy had not submitted specific building or utility applications. The broader dispute highlights community desire for meaningful input on industrial projects that could significantly alter local landscape and daily life.