Kirksville City Council adopts resolution on data center zoning, sets stage for fall regulations
The Kirksville City Council unanimously adopted a resolution to review and establish zoning standards for data center development within city limits. Following public discussions and concerns from landowners, the council formally requested developers to halt any potential projects until the new policies are finalized. This proactive measure aims to regulate future data center growth in the area.
The Kirksville City Council unanimously adopted a resolution on July 27 to establish zoning standards for data center development within city limits. This action came after two weeks of public discussion, including a study session and specific concerns raised by area landowners regarding potential environmental impacts and the preservation of farmland.
During the meeting, Council member John Gardner successfully proposed an amendment to the resolution, formally requesting that data center developers refrain from pursuing any projects in Kirksville until the city's policy-making process is complete. Mayor Zac Burden reiterated this request, noting that no developers have yet approached the city with proposals. City Manager Mari Macomber confirmed the resolution aligns with the council's direction to develop a formal process, potentially including provisions for special use permits.
City Attorney James Klahr, representing Kirksville through Lauber Municipal Law, mentioned that several Missouri municipalities are considering data center moratoriums, though Kirksville opted for a zoning-focused approach. A prior study session, which Adair County commissioners also attended, included a briefing on a statewide data center summit covering topics such as water usage, noise and emissions regulation, zoning tools, and tax revenue. Adair County Presiding Commissioner Mark Shahan highlighted the lack of zoning in unincorporated Adair County, making it a potential target for data center development, and referenced a Buchanan County case where a moratorium was imposed after construction had begun due to public outcry.
Ashley Young, Kirksville's Community and Economic Development Director, indicated that under current city code, data centers would likely be restricted to M2 (heavy industrial) zones, and the city is developing a proposal for special use permits to implement restrictions on setbacks, screening, and noise. The city's Planning and Zoning Commission is scheduled to receive an educational briefing in August and hold a public hearing and vote on zoning recommendations in September, before the proposal moves to the City Council for final consideration. Residents, including Rosanna Abreu and Raquel Palazzolo, voiced concerns during the public comment period, advocating for stronger interim ordinances and questioning land acquisition practices and non-disclosure agreements.