Joplin to consider new $1,000 annual fee for data centers
Joplin, Missouri is set to consider a new $1,000 annual business license fee for data centers, with a first reading scheduled before the City Council. This proposal aims to help the city recover costs associated with regulating the rapidly expanding data center industry, building on recently approved development standards that limit data centers to specific industrial zones and impose requirements on setbacks, noise, and water use.
The Joplin City Council in Missouri is slated to review Council Bill 2026-519, which proposes a new $1,000 annual business license fee for data centers. This measure, scheduled for a first reading on Tuesday, aims to help the city recoup expenses related to regulating and overseeing the rapidly growing data center sector.
This proposed fee follows months of discussions regarding Joplin's approach to data center development. The city recently approved new development standards that restrict data centers to heavy industrial areas and establish specific requirements for setbacks, noise levels, and water usage. The upcoming council meeting's agenda also includes other items, such as a 29-unit row-house development and consideration of tourism grants.