Digital Campus Developer Addresses Concerns for Emporia, Kansas Data Center Project
Gary Pinkston, developer of the proposed Flint Hills Digital Campus data center in Emporia, Kansas, addressed public concerns regarding the project's power, water usage, noise, and environmental impacts. He highlighted potential economic benefits, including increased property taxes and job creation. The project faces local criticism, with residents having an opportunity to voice concerns at an upcoming Planning Commission meeting, ahead of a potential city commission decision in July.
Gary Pinkston, developer behind the Flint Hills Digital Campus data center proposal in west Emporia, Kansas, appeared on KVOE to discuss the project. Pinkston, who founded the Meridian Pacific development company, emphasized the future importance of technology and data centers, anticipating a three-fold increase in the local property tax base if the project proceeds.
The proposed gigawatt facility has garnered significant local criticism over potential impacts on power, water usage, noise, and the environment. Pinkston acknowledged these concerns but stated that the city's policy proposals for power, water, sewer, and zoning would act as "guardrails," ensuring data center companies bear these costs rather than existing customers. The project plans for electricity from Evergy and 600 megawatts of natural gas power.
Pinkston expressed hope for attracting major tech companies, including those he referred to as the "Magnificent Seven" (Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia, Tesla), as end-users, noting that several have shown interest pending city approval. He projects up to 2,000 construction jobs for 5-10 years and a potential 1,500 full-time, contract, and subcontract positions upon full build-out, also foreseeing increased enrollment at local colleges.
Residents are invited to a special Emporia Planning Commission meeting on Tuesday to discuss the proposed Digital Infrastructure zoning overlay. Emporia city commissioners are expected to consider and potentially act on components of the data center plan during their July 1 meeting.