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The Joplin Planning and Zoning Commission approved a proposal to annex and re-zone land in the Wildwood Ranch area for heavy industry, potentially allowing for an AI data center. Residents express concerns about increased utility bills and pollution.

Proponents argue that data centers can help manage utility costs by reducing power use during peak times. They emphasize the importance of domestic data storage for national security, urging an end to negative perceptions about data centers. City council approval is still required.