Missouri Town Votes Out Council Members Over AI Data Center Support
On Tuesday, voters in Festus, Missouri, made a significant decision, expelling four city council members who supported an AI data center in the vicinity. Just a week prior, these council members had voted to approve the $6 billion project, stirring up considerable backlash among residents.
Growing discontent over AI data center developments has become evident in various regions, and a recent election in Wisconsin showcased similar sentiments. Voters there decisively opted to curb a major development plan.
The vote in Festus followed several months of heated opposition to CRG Clayco’s proposal to establish a large data center on 360 acres. Those who lost their council seats had been backing the data centers, while their opponents promised more transparency regarding the approval process.
Dan Moore, who won against pro-data center incumbent Bobby Benz, expressed to media that this ongoing struggle over the data center had hit home for the community. He noted, “People are waking up now. We are not going to let this continue any longer.”
Residents have actively protested against the data center plans, even interrupting a city council meeting recently. Festus resident Lauren Albers voiced her concerns passionately during a council session, stating, “I’m not against growth… I oppose putting data centers between homes and rushing development before residents have real information, real answers, and a real voice.”
Meanwhile, AI proponents emphasize the necessity of data centers for economic growth and competitiveness. However, critics express fears about potential adverse impacts, including the threat of rising electricity costs and displacement of residents.
In Wisconsin, voters also shared their frustrations over local data center projects. They recently passed a unique ballot initiative opposing the $15 billion OpenAI-Vantage data center campus. Although the initiative won’t halt construction, it will require public approval for tax incentives related to future developments.
This project has received backing from former President Donald Trump as part of his Stargate initiative, which aims to foster AI infrastructure. In July 2025, an executive order was signed to hasten developments by easing federal regulations. Trump had emphasized the urgency in building AI capabilities domestically to remain competitive against nations like China.
Resistance against data center expansions is surfacing in numerous U.S. communities, including locations in Alabama, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Florida, where residents are voicing their concerns about similar projects. The debate around these developments continues, reflecting a broader conversation on the balance between progress and local interests.
