Residents urge commissioners to extend moratorium, demand independent studies for proposed data center

Dozens of residents told the Leavenworth County Commission on Monday that the county should extend a moratorium and require independent studies before permitting a proposed large data center near Tonganoxie.

"The thought of a data center going in 3 miles from my home is quite unnerving and very distressing," said resident Hannah Hawk, who asked the board to "require independent studies on the true impacts of our health, environment, water, and noise levels before making a decision." Multiple speakers echoed her call for environmental and health assessments and recommended evening town meetings so more residents could attend.

Speakers described a range of concerns including low‑frequency tonal noise, air pollution and long‑term impacts on children's learning and sleep. Nurse Cecilia Pruwit cited cohort research she said links early life exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide with increased childhood asthma and asked commissioners to ensure medical expertise informs any review.

Several residents requested that the current moratorium be extended at least until studies are completed and new commissioners are briefed. "We need environmental and grid impact assessments before approval," Tammy Patton said, and others asked that the county publish all studies and the regulatory work product for public review.

The commission did not take a final vote on extending the moratorium during the meeting; public comment dominated the morning and resumed after administrative business.