Data centers classified as 'locally unwanted land uses' spark community debates, moratoriums
Data centers are described as modern "locally unwanted land uses" due to their high energy consumption and noise, despite their crucial role in e-commerce and remote work. Communities across Kansas are debating bans and moratoriums on these facilities due to public opposition. Local governments are urged to use their leverage in zoning and negotiations to secure benefits like tax revenue while mitigating negative impacts.
The Topeka Capital-Journal published an opinion piece by university lecturer Bill Fiander, characterizing modern hyperscale data centers as 'LULUs' or locally unwanted land uses. While crucial for e-commerce, cloud storage, and remote work, these facilities are associated with negative impacts such as high energy use, noise, and significant land and water consumption, often sparking public opposition.
Fiander highlights a paradox where communities oppose data centers yet increasingly depend on their services. He observes that communities across Kansas, citing examples like Ottawa and Emporia, are experiencing citizen-led bans or moratoriums. However, he also notes that data centers offer substantial economic advantages, providing an average of $20 million or more in annual property tax revenue, which can be a lifeline for struggling local budgets.
The author advises local officials to leverage their power, especially as suitable development sites become scarcer. He advocates for proactive engagement with professional planners and experts to negotiate agreements that ensure communities benefit economically while effectively mitigating adverse effects, rather than imposing blanket bans.