KTTC reports…

Although no official project has been confirmed, the city of Harmony is drafting local regulations to prepare for any potential data center development. However, many residents in this close-knit Highway 52 community are raising concerns about the speed at which elected leaders are moving.

With a population of just over 1,000 people, residents want to ensure that any changes to the city code reflect the needs of the community first and foremost.

“If we have an ordinance, we have to honor the rules,” said Harmony resident Michael Himlie. “I’m not sure it reads that way in the current draft.”

Under the proposed ordinance, developers would be blocked from future expansions of any data center site without explicit city approval. To address potential noise issues, the city is considering requirements for sound barriers and berms next to residential areas.

While some residents say they appreciate the discussion of safety and quality-of-life safeguards, they want city officials to slow down the review process.