Osawatomie Considers $10 Billion Data Center Proposal

The city of Osawatomie, Kansas, is evaluating a proposal by MDH Partners to construct a mid-sized data center within a 20-year-old business park. The Atlanta-based firm plans a six-year buildout consisting of up to seven buildings that would employ approximately 90 people. While the developers have not yet secured a technology company to operate the facility, the project could cost $10 billion and potentially generate $30 million in annual revenue for the city, with $10 million each for the county and school district.

City Manager Bret Glendenning views the investment as a means to fund critical infrastructure repairs and lower property taxes for residents. However, the project has met local opposition from residents who cite concerns regarding noise pollution, potential surveillance, electrical grid strain, and water consumption.

Charles Tinsley, Vice President of MDH Partners, argues that the facility will provide significant financial gains without requiring extensive tax breaks or increasing the burden on municipal services and classrooms. The Osawatomie City Planning Commission is currently reviewing the proposal before it moves to the City Council for final approval.