Data center talk continues in Joplin
The Joplin City Council tabled a vote on a controversial data center ordinance, sending it back to the planning and zoning commission for revisions. The ordinance will focus on addressing public concerns regarding wastewater and emissions. A key vote by the commission is scheduled for Monday.
The Joplin City Council has postponed a decision on a contentious data center ordinance, opting to return the proposal to the planning and zoning commission for further review. The ordinance, which aims to establish development rules for future data centers, including the proposed Wildwood Ranch project, has drawn significant public criticism.
City planner Tyler Bolars indicated that the revisions will primarily target wastewater and emissions language, which were identified as the primary concerns raised by the public. Bolars emphasized the importance of ensuring the community feels heard and that their objections are adequately addressed in the revised ordinance.
Following these revisions, the planning and zoning commission is slated to meet on Monday at 4 p.m. at city hall to reconsider the ordinance. The outcome of this meeting will determine whether the commission approves the revised ordinance or tables it once more.