Pottawatomie data-center moratorium fight and rising utility-cost concerns

The technical rejection of the county moratorium petition did not end opposition: 125-150 residents attended the latest hearing, and all 33 speakers asked commissioners for more time before regulations are finalized. The Emporia experience adds concerns about transparency and public trust, while Evergy's planned buildout, potential rate increases of up to 10% and record land values intensify the local and statewide debate.