Residents Push for Public Vote on Festus Data Center Plan

A Major Data Center Proposal Sparks Mixed Reactions in Festus

FESTUS, Mo. – A proposed multi-billion-dollar data center in Festus is generating strong reactions from the local community. Some residents feel they have been blindsided and excluded from the decision-making process. The project, which is expected to bring significant economic benefits, has also raised concerns among those who live nearby.

The city leaders describe the project as a once-in-a-generation investment. With an estimated $6 billion in funding, the data center is expected to create jobs, boost tax revenue, and drive long-term economic growth in the area.

On Friday, the city released a statement on Facebook, stating, “A framework has been reached for a development agreement with CRG for the data center project.” The proposed facility would be located near Highway 67 and County Road CC, marking one of the largest private investments in Jefferson County’s history.

However, not everyone is pleased. Residents like Michelle Watters express frustration over the lack of transparency and involvement in the decision-making process. “We pay taxes, we pay their salaries, and they’re making deals without us; without the residents,” she said.

William Watters echoed her sentiments, questioning why the project hasn’t been put to a public vote. “If this is so good, it’s real simple, why not take it to the vote of the people?” he asked.

The couple is part of a group that recently submitted over 1,400 signatures to the city, requesting a public vote on the project. However, city leaders stated that a vote is not required under the city’s charter.

Despite this, many residents argue that the process lacks transparency, especially for those who could be directly affected by the project.

“This is gonna affect everybody,” William Watters said. “People don’t see that really big picture.”

Residents have raised several concerns about the project, including the lack of a publicly shared site plan, potential environmental impacts, and the strain on local infrastructure. Some worry that homes in the area, which rely on well water, could be affected. Others are concerned about noise pollution and the clearing of wooded land.

In a public statement released Friday, Festus Mayor Sam Richards expressed his support for the project. He believes the data center will provide significant benefits to Festus and Jefferson County. According to Richards, the project represents a $6 billion initial investment in the community, with an estimated $1.3 billion in property taxes, utility taxes, and community benefit payments over 25 years. He said these revenues would result in an average annual benefit of more than $53 million for the community.

City officials say the project will follow all regulations and could help fund community improvements, including a new firehouse and support for the local school district.

But for those living nearby, the bigger question remains whether their voices are being heard. One resident asked, “They see revenue coming in, but the people around here… what’s it going to do to this town? It’s going to explode this town, but at what cost?”

In a statement last Friday, Festus Mayor Sam Richards mentioned that the city would also establish a “voluntary buyout program” for residents in close proximity to the proposed data center, including those living on Glenkee Court and north of the anticipated site.

FOX 2 reached out to the City of Festus for additional comment but had not received a response as of Sunday evening.

A public meeting is scheduled for Monday night, where residents are expected to share their concerns. Originally planned for Festus City Hall, the meeting has been moved to the gym at Festus High School to accommodate the large crowd. Many residents plan to attend, hoping to be heard before any final decisions are made.

A final vote on the project is expected by the City Council on Monday, March 30.