Festus reaches deal on framework with developer for data center

The City of Festus, Missouri, has finalized a framework for a development agreement with CRG, a company planning to construct a data center within the city. Festus Mayor Richards stated that CRG is prepared to initially invest $6 billion into the city, with an estimated total investment of over $1 billion spanning a quarter-century. However, the proposed data center has been met with significant public opposition for several months. Residents have frequently packed city meetings to voice their criticism, raising concerns about the project's potential impact on water usage, sewage systems, and the local environment. A major point of contention is the possibility that the data center could substantially increase residents' electricity rates. Mayor Richards claims that the new agreement includes specific stipulations designed to address these concerns raised by the community. The Festus City Council is scheduled to discuss the proposed agreement during a meeting on Monday night. Due to the anticipated large public turnout, the meeting will be held at the Festus High School gym at 6:00 p.m.