Kirksville council asks data‑center developers to hold off while zoning, residents push for interim ban

The Kirksville City Council voted to adopt a resolution declaring its intent to review and assign zoning regulations for data‑center development and approved an amendment asking developers to hold off on submitting proposals until the city’s policy process concludes.

City Manager Mary Maycomber summarized an aggressive timeline for staff and the planning and zoning commission to develop possible special‑use permit provisions and other standards. Council member Gardner moved an amendment adding a "notice to project developers" asking them to refrain from moving forward until the policy formation process is complete; the amendment passed and the council then approved the resolution.

Residents at the podium urged stronger, faster limits. Rosanna Abreu, who identified herself as a county resident, said agricultural character and livelihoods could be threatened and urged the council to avoid nondisclosure agreements: "I would ask you not to enter into nondisclosure agreements because I think it certainly flies in the spirit of the sunshine law," she said. Raquel Palazzolo recommended the council consider an interim ordinance that would preclude issuance of permits for data‑center development until research on long‑term ecological and economic impacts is completed. "I recommend the council develop and pass an interim ordinance that precludes the issuance of any permit or license allowing for the development of a data center or centers in Kirksville until substantive and satisfactory research has been concluded," Palazzolo said.