Lawsuit seeks to halt data center project in Festus

Attorney Stephen Jeffery, representing Festus residents and the citizen group Wake Up Jeffco, announced a lawsuit has been filed against the City of Festus, Missouri, and developer CRG. The lawsuit aims to invalidate the city's rezoning of seven parcels for industrial use and restore them to their previous non-urban or residential classifications. It also seeks to invalidate an infrastructure, development, and funding agreement approved by the Festus City Council on March 30. Lori Merriman, founder of Wake Up Jeffco, expressed optimism about the lawsuit and recent election results that saw four incumbent council members ousted, suggesting widespread public opposition to the hyperscale data center project. Residents have voiced concerns about the project's potential environmental impact, its effect on property values, and overall quality of life. The City of Festus, through a spokesperson, stated it followed all legal steps for the annexation, rezoning, and development agreement, including public notices and hearings. The city plans to file a response to the lawsuit in court. An attorney for CRG asserted the company believes the lawsuit is without merit, emphasizing CRG's extensive engagement with the community and commitment to transparency. CRG stated it will continue discussions with the city, including site plan submission and permitting, and will not let the litigation deter progress on a project it believes will benefit the community.