Story perspectives

Festus Voters Oust Incumbents Over Controversial Data Center Project

4/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

In Festus, Missouri, voters ousted four incumbent council members after the March 30, 2025 approval of a $6 billion data center project.
Newly elected council members, including Rick Belleville, pledged transparency and opposition.
Opponents filed a lawsuit alleging unlawful zoning and public notice violations.
City Attorney Brian Malone said all legal steps were followed in the approval.
The recall efforts against the mayor and remaining council members continue.

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Story summary

In Festus, Missouri, voters ousted four incumbent council members after the March 30, 2025 approval of a $6 billion data center project.
Newly elected council members, including Rick Belleville, pledged transparency and opposition.
Opponents filed a lawsuit alleging unlawful zoning and public notice violations.
City Attorney Brian Malone said all legal steps were followed in the approval.
The recall efforts against the mayor and remaining council members continue.