City of Gardner City Council Meeting 05/04/2026

The City of Gardner, Kansas City Council held a meeting on May 4, 2026, which included a public hearing and extensive public comments primarily focused on a proposed large-scale data center development. The council considered a waiver for alcohol sales during a Shriners event and approved related consent agenda items. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to community concerns about the data center project, including environmental impacts, noise, water usage, property values, and the developer's track record. Residents urged the council to conduct independent environmental and technical reviews before proceeding. The council also discussed an ordinance to authorize electric system improvements funded by general obligation bonds, including a $5.06 million contract awarded to Alli Power Group for a gas turbine upgrade. Additionally, the council considered but ultimately decided not to opt into extended alcohol sales hours during the 2026 World Cup event. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss attorney-client privileged matters related to the data center. No final decisions on the data center were made during this session, but the council acknowledged the community's input and indicated further consideration would follow.