Developer challenges Springfield zoning on proposed data center project
Developer Trent Overhue is disputing the City of Springfield's interpretation of its zoning code regarding his proposed data center project at 2900 S. National Ave., arguing it is permitted under existing Planned Development 251 zoning. The city, which recently enacted a 120-day moratorium on data center applications, maintains that a data center is not allowed under current or proposed zoning, leading to a potential lawsuit from Overhue, who has already sued Benton County over a similar moratorium.
Developer Trent Overhue is engaged in a dispute with the City of Springfield, Missouri, over the zoning classification for his proposed data center at 2900 S. National Ave. Overhue contends that the project is permitted under the property's existing Planned Development 251 (PD 251) zoning, which allows for "data processing centers." However, the City's Law Department has determined that data processing centers are distinct from data centers and therefore the project is not allowed under PD 251, a stance reiterated by Planning Staff.
Adding to the conflict, the Springfield City Council enacted a 120-day moratorium on data center applications in June, which City Manager David Cameron indicates will likely be extended. Overhue, representing NSI 6, LLC, recently sued Benton County over a similar moratorium, resulting in a temporary restraining order in his favor. He has indicated a willingness to sue the City of Springfield if their moratorium is extended.
Public opposition to data center development is also evident, with two capacity-crowd public engagement sessions already held to discuss concerns around energy demand, water usage, noise pollution, and environmental impacts. Neighbors have expressed support for a proposed veterinary clinic on the property but are wary that a rezoning to C-MX2 could still allow for a data center. The Springfield Planning and Zoning Commission recently tabled a rezoning application for the property, which focused on the veterinary clinic, to an October 15 meeting.