Callaway County presiding commissioner candidates talk data centers, economic development
Candidates for Callaway County presiding commissioner discussed the role of data centers in the county's economic development. Discussions included concerns about data center noise, water and electricity usage, land use, and the potential for tax abatements, as well as the county's lack of planning and zoning. Candidates expressed varying opinions on whether data centers are a good fit for the county and their stance on signing non-disclosure agreements with potential developers.
During a recent Callaway Chamber of Commerce candidate forum, individuals vying for Callaway County's presiding commissioner position, including Republicans Rob Barnes, Clay Chism, and Larry Robinson, and Democrat Mike Carter, discussed the role of data centers in the county's economic development. Candidate Mike Carter raised concerns about "billion-dollar data centers" bringing noise, high water and electricity usage, and consuming farmland. Clay Chism highlighted that data centers often seek locations without planning and zoning (P&Z), which Callaway County currently lacks, but he opposed implementing P&Z county-wide, arguing it would unfairly impact residents in smaller communities.
Chism also expressed strong opposition to signing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with large corporations seeking tax abatements, stating he would not "give away your tax dollars" to make billionaires richer. Rob Barnes agreed that NDAs are "almost pointless" but clarified that the current Callaway County Commission has not signed any such agreements regarding data center development. Larry Robinson voiced general opposition to data centers due to their electric and water usage, though he acknowledged they could create employment. He also concurred that the commission has not signed NDAs.
The candidates' discussions underscored a divided perspective on the potential benefits and drawbacks of attracting data centers, particularly concerning environmental impact, infrastructure strain, and fiscal incentives. The forum aimed to inform voters ahead of the Aug. 4 primary and Nov. 3 general elections.