Butler Co. community looks to block data centers
A community in Butler County, Kansas, specifically El Dorado, is actively seeking a ban on large data centers and utility-scale energy storage systems. Residents collected over 700 signatures on a petition, which has now led to a court hearing. A judge heard the case, and a ruling is expected next week.
A Kansas community in Butler County is actively pursuing a ban on data centers from establishing themselves in the area, taking their case to court. A judge recently heard arguments regarding a petition that gathered over 700 signatures this summer.
The petition seeks to implement a ban on large data centers and industrial, commercial, or utility-scale energy storage systems within Butler County. If the petition does not pass, organizers intend to push for a public vote on the issue. The petition was initially submitted to the City of El Dorado, which then referred it to the City Attorney and the District Court for a decision.
Petition organizer Danica Dickson stated that the community has sufficient support and will not "just roll over and quit the fight," regardless of an administrative ruling. A decision from the court is anticipated next Friday, August 21st, at the Butler County Courthouse.