Edgerton neighbors launch petition to have more say in data center development decisions
Residents in Edgerton, Kansas, are actively opposing a proposed data center development by DAMAC, launching a petition for a public vote and a nonprofit to fund legal representation. The Edgerton Planning Commission initially denied DAMAC's application, but the company plans to appeal the decision to the city council.
Residents in Edgerton, Kansas, are actively protesting a proposed data center development by Dubai-based company DAMAC, which faces an appeal to the city council this week after its application was denied by the Edgerton Planning Commission. The community has expressed concerns about a lack of transparency from city leaders regarding data center developments.
Neighbors like Carrie Schmidt have launched a petition, seeking to allow Edgerton citizens to vote on data center proposals. Kimberly Twente, another resident, highlighted environmental concerns, including water usage, heat production, and disruption to local wildlife. In addition to the petition, residents formed a nonprofit, Public Trust Collective, to raise funds for an attorney to advocate for transparent government and prevent data centers.
The City of Edgerton has created a webpage to address common concerns about the DAMAC proposal, stating that the project has not requested tax abatements and is not expected to contaminate water or increase electric bills. However, residents remain skeptical about the long-term impacts. DAMAC has not responded to KSHB 41 News' requests for comment.