Douglas County commissioners to weigh in on data centers and similar developments; residents urge more public input

Douglas County, Kansas, commissioners are slated to hold a work session to review planning staff recommendations concerning new zoning language for data centers, battery storage, and cryptocurrency mining facilities in rural areas. The Wednesday meeting will mark the first time commissioners officially hear these detailed proposals, which aim to define land uses currently unclear in the county's zoning code. However, county residents, including former county commissioner Nancy Thellman and resident Lisa Harris, are actively protesting the process, asserting that the public has been excluded from initial discussions and the formulation of these recommendations. Thellman, who is also involved in a lawsuit against the county over a solar farm development process, expressed frustration over what she perceives as a recurring lack of public engagement in high-impact rural planning efforts. Douglas County spokesperson Karrey Britt defended the process, stating that public input is a crucial step and will be gathered once a clear proposal is prepared. Britt emphasized that no final action on regulations will occur without public hearings and input. Staff research highlighted several concerns associated with these developments, including the heavy demand for electricity and water, potential strain on rural water systems, fire risks for battery storage, noise, visual impacts, and the need for significant infrastructure upgrades. While these facilities can generate substantial property tax revenue, staff noted the lengthy and disruptive construction phases, as well as the county's capacity to review highly technical proposals. The county has not implemented a moratorium, though staff will not consider applications until regulations are adopted. The commission will give feedback to staff but will not vote on any regulations during the work session, and no timeline for final consideration has been established.