BOCC Meeting for August 19, 2026

The Leavenworth County Kansas Board of County Commissioners meeting on August 19, 2026, focused heavily on public concerns and discussions regarding the proposed Project Blue Stem data center and associated power plant. Numerous residents expressed opposition, citing potential negative impacts on property values, health, environmental pollution, and community character. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to reviewing a financial analysis report commissioned by the county, which projected gross revenues from the project but was criticized for lacking a net fiscal impact assessment and not accounting for costs or tax incentives. The board discussed the moratorium on data center applications, with debate over whether it could be extended given an existing application. The commissioners also considered approving an engineering contract with SMH Consultants for road improvements near the proposed site, funded by the developer at no risk to the county. Additionally, the board approved a $115,000 contract with Heartland Business Systems to enhance county network firewall security. The meeting included motions to table the moratorium resolution and extensive dialogue about the regulatory process, zoning, and the need for comprehensive rules before proceeding with the project. No final decisions on the data center application were made, reflecting ongoing community and governmental deliberations.