Citizen groups gather in Pacific ahead of data center vote

Leaders in Franklin County, Missouri, are scheduled to vote this week on plans for two proposed data centers. In anticipation of this decision, concerned residents gathered in Pacific, Missouri, to organize efforts aimed at blocking these developments. One data center is planned for Pacific, and the other for Grays Summit. The primary concern raised by residents is the potential impact on local water resources and the aquatic ecosystem. They fear the facilities' water usage and operations could harm the area, which is described as rich in wildlife. A report from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) supports these claims, identifying two endangered amphibian species in the vicinity of the Merrimack River. Residents are calling for robust environmental protections to prevent the displacement of animals due to commercial development in what is currently rural agricultural land. The MDC, while acknowledging the presence of endangered species, maintains a neutral stance on the developments. The agency has stated it neither supports nor opposes the projects but is prepared to work with private developers to support Missouri's wildlife. Reagan Deroglio of KSDK News reported on the residents' specific concerns and their ongoing plans to oppose the projects.