Overview
- The Jackson County Circuit Court ruling Wednesday found the bond ordinance took effect immediately under the Independence charter and cannot go to a public vote.
- Judge Jennifer Phillips denied the residents’ lawsuit and lifted an earlier injunction, allowing the city to proceed with the financing and timeline for the development.
- The Independence City Council on March 2 approved Chapter 100 industrial revenue bonds, a tool that lowers property taxes in exchange for set payments to local governments during the project.
- The planned hyperscale data center covers about 400 acres near Highway 78 and Little Blue Parkway, where dirt grading is already underway.
- Opponents say they have about 3,200 of roughly 3,700 signatures and will submit them while weighing an appeal and turning to the April 7 mayoral race, citing concerns about a reported 90% tax break and environmental impacts.