De Soto neighbors voice opposition to large-scale data center developments
Residents in De Soto, Kansas, are strongly opposing two proposed large-scale data center developments by Beal Infrastructure and Digital Realty. Concerns center on excessive energy and water use, environmental pollution, and controversial tax abatements. A recent city council meeting saw residents voice their objections and explore strategies to prevent the projects.
Residents of De Soto, Kansas, expressed strong opposition to two major data center developments during a recent city council meeting. Beal Infrastructure already holds a development agreement to build 2 million square feet of data centers on 300 acres near 103rd and Edgerton. A second developer, Digital Realty, presented plans to construct 3 million square feet across nine buildings on 300 of its 1700 acquired acres, though it does not yet have a development agreement.
More than a dozen residents voiced concerns about the projects' potential impact, specifically citing excessive energy and water consumption, as well as pollution to land and water streams. They also criticized the ten-year tax abatement granted to Beal Infrastructure, which involves an $800,000 Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) rather than standard property taxes. Residents are keen to prevent these projects from moving forward.
A representative for Digital Realty acknowledged the residents' valid concerns and stated the company's commitment to addressing them while highlighting their excitement to be in the Kansas City region. The City of De Soto indicated it is reviewing resident concerns and plans to mitigate any worries. Residents are drawing inspiration from the nearby city of Gardner, which successfully blocked a data center by not offering tax incentives.
The next city council meeting is scheduled for June 18th, and Beal Infrastructure will host an open house at the high school to discuss its plans with residents.