De Soto data center concerns: Leaders discuss solutions for noise pollution

De Soto, Kansas, city officials are confronting new concerns regarding noise pollution from a previously approved $3 billion data center development by Beal Infrastructure. The project, located south of K-10 and slated for nine years of construction, has prompted Councilman Zack Bradley to advocate for changes to the city's noise ordinance. Bradley is looking into possibilities to ensure the developer protects public health, suggesting mitigation strategies like high berms with vegetation, sound curtains, and barriers. Despite the site being zoned for industrial use and largely separated from residential areas, Mayor Rick Walker has expressed interest in Councilman Bradley’s proposals. The issue is expected to be discussed at an upcoming city council meeting. Additionally, the development agreement includes a property tax abatement, with the developers providing a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) designed to benefit De Soto schools, the fire district, and other local taxing groups.