Data Centers Draw Investment, Scrutiny Across Missouri
Missouri is experiencing a surge in data center investments from companies like Google and Amazon, totaling billions of dollars. Concurrently, several local governments, including St. Charles City, Jackson County, and St. Charles County, have enacted moratoriums on data center development. These actions reflect ongoing debates about the projects' impacts on water and electricity consumption, and land use.
Missouri has become a significant hub for data center investment, attracting billions of dollars from major technology companies, according to recent reports. Google announced a $15 billion investment in New Florence for data center infrastructure, while Amazon plans a $10 billion data center campus in Montgomery City. Governor Mike Kehoe lauded these investments, highlighting Missouri's growing appeal for technology and innovation.
However, this influx of development has also led to increased scrutiny and regulatory action from local governments across the state. The St. Charles City Council voted to permanently prohibit large-scale data centers by making a one-year moratorium permanent, citing zoning code limitations. Similarly, the Jackson County Legislature approved a 180-day moratorium on new land-use applications for data centers in unincorporated areas, aiming to develop long-term policies and strengthen safety regulations. The St. Charles County Council also unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on data centers larger than 100,000 square feet or requiring over 5 megawatts, planning to study infrastructure and public health impacts.
The central points of contention revolve around data centers' significant electricity and water consumption, as well as land-use implications. While the Taxpayers Protection Alliance contends these concerns are overstated, citing low percentages of statewide consumption, State Representative Colin Wellenkamp has proposed legislation requiring Department of Natural Resources permits for facilities using over 2 million gallons of fresh water per day or 80% of a locality's available capacity. This ongoing debate underscores the state's challenge in balancing economic investment with environmental and infrastructure concerns.