Missouri county pauses solar, wind, data center projects for one year
Cedar County, Missouri, has enacted a 12-month moratorium on new data center, solar, wind, and battery storage developments. The decision by county commissioners has sparked opposition from residents who feel it was made without sufficient public input and discussion, citing concerns over transparency.
Cedar County, Missouri, commissioners have imposed a 12-month moratorium on new data center, solar, wind, and battery storage projects in unincorporated parts of the county, effective September 8th. The ordinance cites concerns about possible effects on water, power, noise, drainage, and public health.
However, the decision has drawn criticism from some residents who argue that the commissioners acted without first consulting the community or allowing for public discussion. Resident Michael Satz, who has worked on data center and solar projects, referred to the moratorium as "backdoor zoning," noting that the county lacks voter approval for planning and zoning necessary for such implementations. Residents expressed a desire for more transparency from their leaders, with one retired teacher learning of the decision via Facebook.
KY3 News reached out to all three county commissioners and their attorney, but none agreed to speak on camera or returned calls regarding the ordinance. While the ordinance promises future public forums, no dates have yet been announced, and commissioners retain the option to extend the moratorium.