St. Joseph City Council to consider contracts for data center zoning, development guidelines

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — The St. Joseph City Council is expected to hear the first readings of two proposed ordinances Monday related to the city’s ongoing effort to establish zoning and development guidelines for potential data center projects.

The ordinances are scheduled to be introduced during the council’s 5:30 p.m. meeting Monday, Sept. 28, in the Council Chamber on the third floor of City Hall.

According to the City of St. Joseph, staff is recommending contracts with GBA Inc. and Renew Missouri Advocates following a request for proposals process seeking firms with experience related to data center development and regulation.

Under the proposed agreements, GBA would provide recommendations for potential zoning revisions and development guidelines at a cost of $42,440.

Renew Missouri Advocates would primarily provide community outreach and zoning-related legal services under a $10,750 contract.

Funding for both contracts would come from the city’s general fund.

The city began a 12-month pause on new data center applications on July 21. City officials said the temporary pause is intended to give staff, councilmembers and residents time to examine issues surrounding data center development and determine what regulations may be appropriate for St. Joseph.

The city currently does not have zoning regulations specifically addressing data centers.

Officials also said there are currently no data center applications submitted or awaiting action in St. Joseph.

According to the city, local governments generally cannot prohibit an otherwise lawful type of business from operating within their jurisdictions, but municipalities can establish zoning and development requirements governing where and how certain uses operate.

Potential regulations being considered could address issues including location, setbacks, landscaping and buffering, building design, infrastructure, noise, lighting, utility usage and environmental considerations.

Residents will also have opportunities to participate as recommendations are developed.

The city said public input could take place through Planning Commission and City Council meetings, community forums and other public engagement opportunities.

Information about upcoming meetings and opportunities for public comment will be released through the city’s regular communication channels.

Both ordinances are currently scheduled for a second reading and possible vote during the Monday, Oct. 12 City Council meeting, unless the council takes other action.

Residents can also follow the process through the city’s Data Center Information webpage, which the city said will be updated as additional information becomes available.