Supervisors agree to discuss battery storage, data centers

The Audubon County Board of Supervisors recently decided to hold a future meeting to discuss the potential for data centers within the county. This decision followed an email inquiry from unnamed company officials regarding battery storage systems. During the meeting, Chairman Kent Grabell introduced the topic of data centers, noting that neighboring Shelby County had already implemented a moratorium on them. Board member Heath Hansen voiced strong concerns, highlighting data centers' high electricity and water usage, and questioning the economic benefits of tax breaks often offered to such facilities. Similar concerns were raised by Board Member Jodie Hoadley of the Adair County Board of Supervisors, who is also considering an ordinance related to data centers.