Jackson County leaders hold forum on data center protections
Jackson County leaders held a forum in Independence to discuss regulations for data centers before the county's 180-day pause expires in December. Residents raised concerns about runoff, public safety and environmental impacts, while officials said they want rules that address community concerns without preventing economic development.
Jackson County leaders held a public forum in Independence on potential protections and regulations for data centers as the county's 180-day development pause approaches expiration in December. Officials said the county currently has no ordinances governing data centers and is seeking public input before the Jackson County Legislature considers formal guidelines.
Residents, including people near Sibley in rural Jackson County, expressed concerns about runoff reaching the Missouri River and the effects of industrial battery energy storage systems that may support data center development. County officials said any future resolution could require developers to address public safety, environmental impacts, utility protection, public input and tax responsibilities, while others urged the county not to delay technological and economic development.