Emporia data center ban petition sent off for judicial review
The Emporia City Commission voted unanimously to send a citizen petition, which seeks to ban data centers in the city, for judicial review. Protesters gathered outside the virtual meeting, expressing frustration over the lack of public comment opportunities. The commission decided to seek judicial input to avoid potential legal issues in the future.
The Emporia City Commission voted unanimously to send a citizen petition seeking to prohibit high-impact data centers within the city for judicial review. The decision was made during a virtual meeting, prompting protesters to gather outside the William Lindsay White Civic Auditorium, despite no public comment being allowed inside.
Commissioner Jonah Kahn reported on the meeting, noting the crowd gathered. Residents expressed their desire to be heard, while others acknowledged the necessity of the virtual format due to safety concerns and real threats. The petition in question collected over 1,000 signatures. Commissioners sought judicial help to get an outside decision, aiming to avoid future legal entanglements and potential lawsuits over the petition.