Franklin County meeting could be turning point in data center debate

FRANKLIN COUNTY, Mo. (First Alert 4) - The fight over proposed data centers in Franklin County is back in the spotlight, with county leaders expected to take up the controversial issue again Tuesday night.

The Franklin County Planning and Zoning Commission is set to discuss plans tied to two large developments that have drawn strong opinions from both supporters and nearby residents. The commission is expected to either approve or deny a rezoning request connected to the projects.

The proposals include the Meramec Valley Technology Park, which is south of Pacific and the Gateway Digital Campus near Villa Ridge.

Developers say the projects represent a major economic opportunity for the region, calling them among the largest potential investments in Franklin County’s history.

However, residents living near the proposed sites say they are concerned about what the projects could bring to their communities, including increased noise, bright lighting, impacts on wildlife and potential environmental effects on the nearby Meramec River.

Scott Matthews, a resident who lives near one of the proposed sites, said the plans have raised concerns about the future of the area.

“What we pursued for retirement and to have something for our children, our grandchildren to be able to experience nature and grow a garden and play in the creek and fish, all of that’s in jeopardy now,” Matthews said.

In addition to the rezoning requests, the commission is also expected to consider new countywide rules that would apply to future data center developments.

Even if the commission approves those regulations, they would still require final approval from the Franklin County Commission.

The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Union High School gym. Doors will open to the public at 6:30 p.m.