Independence City Council election questionnaire: Hear from all 4 candidates

The article presents a questionnaire for the four candidates vying for two at-large Independence City Council seats in the April 7 election: incumbent Jared Fears, former councilwoman Lucy Young, and challengers Cody Atkinson and Jackie Dorman. A central focus of the questionnaire is the recently approved Chapter 100 Bonds for the Nebius data center project, a controversial initiative that has become a key campaign issue. Candidates offered varied perspectives on the project. Cody Atkinson expressed conditional support, emphasizing that Nebius must adhere to contract details and community promises, including the construction of a private power plant to protect ratepayers, reduced water usage with a closed-loop system, and commitments to union labor and native landscaping. He acknowledged risks to property owners and the environment but highlighted the significant revenue projected for the city and school districts through PILOT fees, despite a 90% property tax abatement. Jackie Dorman strongly opposed the project, particularly the 90% tax abatement for a "billion-dollar foreign company," arguing for more transparency and public input and expressing concern that taxpayers would bear the risk if benefits didn't materialize. Jared Fears, who voted for the project, cited citizen protection through agreements and the anticipated $100 million annually to the city and taxing jurisdictions as his primary reasons. Lucy Young also fully supported the council's decision, emphasizing the "transformational" PILOT revenues for the general fund, streets, and parks, and noted that experts had scrutinized contracts to prevent negative outcomes seen in other cities, particularly regarding electricity and water usage. Beyond the data center, candidates also discussed priorities for potential new revenues, including infrastructure, public safety, debt reduction, and community amenities. The debate over the Nebius project underscores the differing visions among candidates for Independence's economic development, fiscal responsibility, and community well-being.