Franklin County residents debate rezoning for data centers

Franklin County, Missouri, experienced a lengthy and contentious planning and zoning meeting where residents debated controversial plans to rezone two large properties for potential data center sites. The meeting at Union High School extended until 4:30 AM, with the rezoning discussion alone lasting over six and a half hours. The majority of the attendees voiced strong opposition to the proposals, citing worries about transparency, potential health and environmental impacts, and the appropriateness of such large-scale developments in their quiet, rural community. The proposed sites are located at Diamond Farms Lane and Phelan Road, near the Shaw Nature Reserve and the Merrimack River, respectively. Residents expressed frustration over unanswered questions regarding the projects. In contrast, supporters, including developers and union labor leaders, advocated for the projects, emphasizing the potential for thousands of jobs and significant tax revenue for Franklin County. The Franklin County Planning and Zoning Commission heard extensive public comment. While the outcome of their recommendation from the meeting is still pending, the ultimate decision on rezoning these properties will be made by the Franklin County Commissioners.