Joplin City Council to hold public meeting on data center
The Joplin City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to establish new standards for data centers, addressing resident concerns about noise, light, and water usage. The ordinance aims to provide clearer zoning requirements, including increased setbacks and water system mandates. The Planning and Zoning Commission previously tabled the proposal, but the City Council is proceeding with the public hearing.
The Joplin City Council is set to host a public hearing Monday night to discuss a proposed ordinance. The measure aims to establish new operating and zoning standards for data centers within the city, a move intended to alleviate resident concerns and provide clearer regulatory guidelines.
Mayor Rob O'Brian stated on KZRG's Morning News Watch that the ordinance was developed after the city zoned a west side property for heavy industrial use, where data centers are permitted. The proposed standards include increased setbacks from residential areas, specific lighting controls, noise limits, and requirements for closed-loop water systems to minimize water consumption and environmental impact. These provisions were drafted in response to resident complaints about potential noise, light pollution, and water usage.
The Planning and Zoning Commission previously tabled the proposal, requesting further information from city staff. However, as an advisory body, their decision does not prevent the City Council from proceeding with a public hearing. Following public input, the council has several options: approve the ordinance, amend it, table it, or send it back to the commission for additional review. Residents are encouraged to participate in the open-comment session without prior registration to ensure community feedback is considered.