Emporia, Kansas, City Commission to Hold Virtual Meetings After Arrest at Data Center Zoning Vote
The Emporia City Commission will hold its upcoming meetings virtually after an arrest occurred during a previous meeting where zoning changes for data centers were approved. The city faces strong community opposition, including a petition for a ban on certain data centers, which the commission will address at its next meeting.
The Emporia City Commission announced it will conduct its August meetings virtually following an arrest at a contentious July 22 session. During that meeting, the commission unanimously approved zoning changes to permit data center construction. An individual who clapped in support of an opponent's speech was arrested for disorderly conduct and interference with law enforcement, an incident that garnered national attention.
This decision to move meetings online, cited as a measure to protect officials and the public while adhering to the Kansas Open Meetings Act, comes amidst strong community opposition to the data center zoning changes. Residents have submitted a petition advocating for a ban on certain data centers. At its upcoming August 5 meeting, the City Commission is mandated to either enact an ordinance based on this ban petition or present it to voters for a decision. Public comment for the virtual meetings will be collected via email and phone in advance.