Topeka Mayor Weighs Data Center Pros and Cons | Topeka News

Topeka News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 9, 2026 · 1m

Topeka’s mayor is cautiously open to data centers—but only if they meet strict community-first conditions. He’s pushing back against blanket opposition, demanding proof that projects will benefit residents, not just corporate profits. With inquiries pouring in from unnamed companies eyeing Shawnee County’s industrial parks, Duncan insists no tax breaks, no hidden power costs passed to homeowners, and clear water usage plans. Location matters too: no residential noise pollution, only industrial zones. He’s clear—these centers power our tech, so we can’t ignore them, but we also can’t accept…