Independence City Council limits future data centers
The Independence City Council voted 6-0 to impose new restrictions on future data centers, requiring council approval for facilities with electrical loads above five megawatts. The rules do not apply to Nebius’ data center currently under construction, which has faced opposition over tax incentives and prompted a recall election involving project supporters.
The Independence City Council in Missouri voted unanimously to restrict future data center development after controversy surrounding Nebius’ facility. Under the new rules, projects with electrical loads exceeding five megawatts will require approval from the council.
The regulations do not affect the Nebius data center already under construction. The project faced opposition after the previous council approved tax breaks, and voters later removed two councilors who supported it, including Councilman John Perkins in a Sept. 1 recall election.