Independence Missouri

A judge sided with the city of Independence and denied residents’ efforts to put massive tax breaks for an AI data center up to voters.

Los Angeles-based Metrobloks says it will build a $1.4 billion AI data center in Liberty, Missouri, after the city approved a bond and 25-year tax incentive package. The news comes as Independence residents organize against a data project there.

Independence, Missouri, residents will vote on April 7 for their next mayor and to fill two at-large city council seats. Recent debates over tax incentives for a massive data center could factor into the election.

On April 7, voters around Kansas City, Missouri, will decide a number of critical local issues in their communities. That includes multiple school board races, whether to renew Kansas City’s earnings tax, who will lead Independence, and more.

The city of Independence blocked residents from starting a petition that could force a citywide vote after city council approved more than $6 billion in tax breaks. Now opponents are suing to force the process to move forward.

A group of Independence residents opposed to a massive data center is gearing up to force a public vote on it. But the city argues approving their petition would violate its governing rules.

The city approved massive tax breaks because they say the money and protections city will receive make it a good deal. Opponents want to put the incentives on the ballot so residents can weigh in.

Independence, Missouri, officials are considering tax breaks for a massive AI data center, but many residents don’t even want it built in the first place. Plus: After almost a year of conflict, a private prison operator is finally playing nice with the city of Leavenworth to get a permit for an ICE detention facility.

City Council restricted the sale of 7-OH, a derivative of kratom that’s marketed as an energy booster. Public and professional opinions remain split over purported health benefits, potential addiction risks and the ease with which minors can get ahold of the products.

The hyperscale data center would go in eastern Independence, near schools and an ammunition plant. A growing number of residents are trying to stop city officials from providing any tax incentives to the company to keep it from being built.

Some eastern Jackson County residents, frustrated that Kansas City has dominated politics in the county, have been pushing for a "Jackxit." It would be the first time in 150 years that Missouri created a new county, although many elected leaders are skeptical it will gain traction.

Leila's Hair Museum, the most unusual attraction in Independence, Missouri, closed in September. Thanks to the founder’s granddaughter, the massive collection of wreaths made out of human hair is finding new homes at museums across the country.