Gardner data center plan withdrawn

Beale Infrastructure, a California-based company, has announced the withdrawal of its proposed 300-acre data center project in Gardner, Kansas. The decision was prompted by the City of Gardner's communication that no economic incentives would be granted for the development. This announcement came just two days after a Gardner City Council meeting where approximately 100 residents attended, and over 30 individuals, including state Sen. Doug Shane, spoke against the proposal during public comment. Residents living near the proposed site, such as Nacole Boan of Spring Hill and Kyle Eisenbarger of unincorporated Johnson County, expressed immense relief and gratitude for the city's responsiveness to public sentiment. Senator Shane had previously urged the City Council to halt the process, citing overwhelming community opposition. Although the City Council had not taken formal action on the proposal, the withdrawal prevents it from advancing to the Gardner Planning Commission and a potential City Council vote in June. The City of Gardner thanked community members for their engagement and reiterated its commitment to responsible economic development.