Kansas legislator calls for data center moratorium in Johnson and Miami counties

Kansas State Senator Doug Shane (R - Louisburg) has publicly urged all municipal and county governing bodies in Johnson and Miami counties, Kansas, to pass resolutions supporting a moratorium on new data center projects. Citing concerns from his constituents regarding the impacts of these facilities, Sen. Shane issued a news release on May 14 emphasizing the need for a coherent strategy before further development. He warned that if local jurisdictions proceed with projects, he would work with other legislators to call a special session to introduce legislation addressing these concerns. This call for action follows recent local developments, including the Leavenworth County Commission's 3-2 vote to enact a 90-day data center moratorium. Additionally, a proposed data center project in Gardner, within Johnson County, was withdrawn by developers after the city declined to offer incentives. On Tuesday, the Edgerton Planning Commission, also in Johnson County, tabled a data center proposal from DAMAC, citing a need for more information on noise levels and future expansion plans. Sen. Shane highlighted the Edgerton commission's decision as a "wise" move, reinforcing his view that data center development should be strategic and deliberate.