Barber County finalizes deal with Google for data center project
Barber County commissioners have approved a deal with Google for a 1.7 million square foot data center project north of Sharon, Kansas. The decision, made with a 2-0 vote and one abstention, follows months of public debate and resident opposition regarding the project's impact. The agreement includes specific limitations and financial commitments from Google.
The Barber County Commission has finalized an agreement with Google for a large 1.7 million square foot data center to be built north of Sharon, Kansas. The vote was 2-0, despite months of public debate and frustration from local residents who felt they were not adequately informed about the project.
Chairman Brian Quick supported the deal, highlighting the economic benefits, including the creation of 300 to 500 full-time jobs and an estimated $320 million in taxes over the next 20 years for a county with a population of only 4,200. The contract also includes specific limitations regarding the development's proximity to city limits and residents (at least 2,000 feet away), as well as provisions for runoff, land conditions, and decommissioning agreements.
Commissioner Adam Mills abstained from the vote, acknowledging the divided opinions among constituents in District 3. Residents like Jesse Ricky voiced strong opposition, accusing the commission of "tyranny" and asserting that property values of those who don't sell now would become worthless. Ricky, who attended the meeting with signs, announced his intention to run as a write-in candidate against Mike Row in November, citing the commission's handling of the issue. Chairman Quick noted that while the county's side of the deal is moving forward, other elements of the project still need to be addressed.