Ottawa data center question is on the ballot and in court
Ottawa residents are voting on a ballot question concerning a proposed data center development, while the matter is also being reviewed in court for compliance with Kansas law. Supporters cite potential tax revenue, while opponents raise concerns about the scale and impacts of the project.
Ottawa residents are casting ballots on a question related to a proposed data center development. Franklin County officials placed the proposed ordinance on the ballot after county resident Michael Lewis advocated for the project and argued that city officials had ignored a request to advance the ordinance.
The data center proposal is also headed back to court for review of whether it complies with Kansas law. Ottawa resident Chris O'Shea said the potential tax revenue is attractive but expressed concern about the effects of a large-scale facility, reflecting the divided public response to the project.