Residents voice opposition of AI data centers at county meeting
Residents of Ozark County, Missouri, voiced strong opposition to potential AI data center development at a county commission meeting, expressing concerns about changes to their way of life. Commissioners assured residents of their shared opposition and discussed various strategies like ordinances, moratoriums, or a planning and zoning board, but noted the challenges and historical unpopularity of such measures in the county. While residents are worried, commissioners believe it is unlikely a major data center would locate there due to infrastructure limitations.
Residents in Ozark County, Missouri, are growing increasingly concerned about the potential for large AI data centers to be built in their area, prompting a large turnout at a recent county commission meeting. Unlike typical quiet sessions, this meeting saw numerous residents voice their opposition and seek guidance on preventing such developments. Presiding Commissioner Terry Newton, along with Western District Commissioner Layne Nance and Eastern District Commissioner Jim Britt, affirmed their unanimous opposition to data centers in Ozark County, citing concerns about their impact on the landscape and way of life.
Commissioners discussed various strategies to combat data center development, including ordinances and moratoriums, but noted that such measures often face legal challenges and provide only temporary solutions. Ozark County Clerk Brian Wise highlighted the historical reluctance of county citizens to adopt a planning and zoning board, which Commissioner Newton suggested would be the most effective long-term tool. Residents, like Rachel Corter and Adam Freeman, debated the balance between economic development and preserving the county's rural character, with strong sentiments against growth contrasting with calls for STEM infrastructure.
Despite the concerns, both commissioners and Clerk Wise expressed skepticism that a major data center would locate in Ozark County due to its lack of interstate access and proximity to airports or railroads. They also noted advances in data center technology, with newer facilities being smaller and more environmentally friendly. Residents were encouraged to work with their local commission, rather than solely relying on political candidates using the issue for campaigning, as the commission reiterated they had not been approached by any developers regarding data center projects.