Festus residents vote out council members and protest mayor over data center project
Updated
Updated · The Wall Street Journal · Apr 26
Festus residents vote out council members and protest mayor over data center project
6 articles · Updated · The Wall Street Journal · Apr 26
Four council members were ousted in a landslide spring election, and over 4,000 residents have signed petitions to recall the mayor and three remaining pro-project officials.
The $6 billion data center, proposed by CRG, would generate over $32 million annually for 25 years but faces fierce opposition over environmental, utility, and property value concerns.
A lawsuit alleges city officials and the developer concealed project details, while the controversy has made data centers a campaign issue nationwide as more communities consider restrictions.
When big tech promises billions, why are American towns rejecting data centers?
How are secret meetings and NDAs fueling a nationwide backlash against data center deals?
A town ousted its leaders over a data center. What does this signal for local democracy?
As data centers strain the grid, who will ultimately pay for the needed upgrades?
Is the AI boom creating 'heat islands' and water shortages across the US?
Can our aging power grid even survive the AI revolution's massive energy demands?
Voter Backlash and Lawsuit Challenge $6 Billion Festus Data Center Over Transparency and Environmental Concerns
Overview
In April 2026, Festus voters decisively removed all incumbent council members who supported a controversial $6 billion data center project, driven by deep anger over secretive negotiations, ignored public concerns, and environmental risks like water depletion. This political shift sparked a recall campaign against the mayor and led to a lawsuit alleging legal violations and lack of transparency. The newly elected council plans to halt and re-examine the project, aiming to restore trust. Sustained community pressure reshaped local governance, highlighting the tension between promised economic benefits and significant community and environmental costs, making transparency and accountability central to Festus's future decisions.