Shawnee County officials look to hire engineering firm to guide data center decisions

News Clip0:53KSNT News·Topeka, Shawnee County, KS·7/30/2026

Shawnee County Commissioners approved a request to hire an independent engineering firm to evaluate a conditional use permit application submitted by Compass Data Centers. The firm will help review the data center proposal and keep the public informed during what officials expect to be a long process.

zoninggovernmentopposition
Compass Datacenters
Gov: Shawnee County Commissioners, Shawnee County officials

Shawnee County Commissioners have taken a significant step in reviewing a proposed data center development by approving a request to hire an independent engineering firm. This firm will be tasked with evaluating the conditional use permit application submitted by Compass Data Centers.

The proposed data center project, for which Compass Data Centers is seeking approval, is planned for Southwest 85th Street in the Waycross area. County officials emphasized the importance of transparency throughout the evaluation process, stating their commitment to hearing and addressing public concerns.

Officials anticipate that the review and decision-making process for the data center will be extensive and time-consuming, indicating a thorough approach to the project.