BOCC Meeting for June 24, 2026

The Leavenworth County Board of Commissioners meeting on June 24, 2026, focused heavily on public concerns regarding a proposed hyperscale data center project named Project Blue Stem. Multiple residents expressed worries about the environmental, health, and infrastructure impacts of the data center, including electricity consumption, water use, noise pollution, and potential effects on property values. There was significant discussion about the need for comprehensive independent studies on environmental impact, traffic, noise, and fiscal effects before any approval. The board also addressed procurement matters, approving several five-year equipment leases for heavy machinery such as John Deere dozers and motor graders through sealed bid processes, emphasizing cost efficiency and maintenance benefits. Additionally, the meeting included a detailed discussion on bridge maintenance and replacement strategies, highlighting the challenges of aging infrastructure and cost-effective repair options. The board acknowledged the fiscal implications of tax incentives for data centers, with testimony opposing Senate Bill 98, which provides sales tax exemptions for data center investments, citing concerns about lost state revenue and economic fairness. No final decisions on the data center project were made, but the board committed to further review and public engagement.