Large data centers approved on Franklin County farmland despite resident outcry
Franklin County Commissioners have approved zoning regulations for two large-scale data centers, known as Diamond Farms and Crooked Creek projects, on hundreds of acres of farmland. This decision was made despite significant public outcry from local residents concerned about the impact on their homes and environment. The projects are now set to move forward after the Tuesday meeting at East Central College.
Franklin County Commissioners have approved zoning regulations for two large-scale data center projects, Diamond Farms and Crooked Creek, slated for hundreds of acres of farmland in Franklin County, Missouri. The decision, made during a meeting at East Central College in Union on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, followed a public hearing marked by significant opposition from local residents.
Constituents expressed deep concerns about the impact of the data centers on their homes, the local environment, and quality of life. Curtis Lierhemier of Pacific stated, "They just approved something that is going to make us move away from our home." Dana Bowers, whose house is next to the proposed sites, voiced fears about potential health impacts, saying, "When people start getting sick, the blood is on their hands." Other residents like Chuck Abrahamson, a small farmer from Union, highlighted worries about watersheds and waterways, while Susanna Bullock from Pacific expressed general fear of data centers.
Despite the emotional appeals, including chants and a reworked Dolly Parton song by Denise Baker of Robertsville, the Commissioners moved forward with the approval. The developers of the projects were present during the public hearing. This decision transforms hundreds of acres of agricultural land into industrial data center sites.