Independence mayoral candidates clash over Nebius data center revenue at chamber forum

The mayoral race in Independence, Missouri, is currently dominated by discussions surrounding the recently approved Nebius data center project, as candidates Dr. Bridget McCandless and Kevin King vie for the city's top office. The Independence City Council greenlit a tentative agreement for the data center, which includes a significant tax abatement. This decision has ignited local voter engagement, particularly among residents near the proposed site who are concerned about the potential negative aspects of "AI data centers." Both candidates support the data center project for the economic opportunities it promises but sharply disagree on the allocation of the estimated $50 million in tax revenue expected over five years. McCandless emphasizes the critical need to bolster public safety by addressing shortages in police, firefighters, and dispatch personnel. Other suggested uses for the funds include debt reduction, improvements to roads and parks, reinstating bus services, and tackling homelessness. With Election Day just 21 days away and early voting set to begin, the candidates presented their pitches directly to voters and business owners at an Independence Chamber of Commerce forum, where the data center's revenue and its potential uses were a primary point of contention.