St. James Planning and Zoning Commission recommends no data centers

The St. James Planning and Zoning Commission voted to recommend an ordinance that would amend the city code to prohibit data center construction within city limits. The decision followed a packed public hearing where St. James residents expressed strong opposition to data centers, citing concerns over environmental impacts, strain on power grids and water sources, and limited long-term economic benefits beyond initial construction jobs. Mayor Rick Krawiecki noted the unprecedented public attendance, reflecting the community's "overall concern."

The ordinance will now advance to the St. James City Council, which plans to hold both a first and second reading, including a vote, at its August 10 meeting. While no data center developers have approached the city, Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman Mitch Weatherly stated the board sought to proactively address the issue. Community members like Sam Neal and Christiane Durnhoefer highlighted potential ecological damage and competition for utilities.

Krawiecki, who attended a data center summit earlier this year, emphasized the need for local ordinances to regulate data center development. The proposed city ordinance would only apply to St. James city limits, with county-level action required for broader bans in Phelps County. Both Krawiecki and Commission Member John Spurgeon acknowledged that larger data centers are more likely to target rural county areas due to land availability, but stressed the city's commitment to preserving its rural lifestyle.