Joplin council to receive update on amendment 5, consider bridge funding and data center rules
The Joplin City Council is set to consider new zoning standards for future data centers in the city. The proposed ordinance would limit data centers to heavy industrial districts and mandate measures for water use, noise, lighting, and setbacks. This initiative follows months of research by city staff and other Missouri communities.
The Joplin City Council is scheduled to discuss an ordinance that would establish new zoning standards for future data centers within the city. According to Mayor Rob O'Brian, the proposed regulations would restrict data centers to heavy industrial zoning districts and require them to implement measures addressing water consumption, noise, lighting, and setbacks from adjacent properties. This proposal is the result of extensive research by city staff, Planning and Zoning officials, and insights from other Missouri communities that have been evaluating data center developments.
In addition to the data center regulations, the council will receive an update from its Finance Committee regarding Missouri's proposed Amendment 5, which could alter the state's tax system. Mayor O'Brian clarified that the council will not take a position on the amendment but seeks to understand its potential financial impact on Joplin if approved by voters. The council will also consider funding adjustments for the recently completed Tin Cup Bridge project, which exceeded its budget due to supply chain issues and material cost increases.