Ferguson City Council members voted 4-3 Tuesday night to approve a $1.8 billion technology hub and data center at the former Emerson campus, despite residents’ objections.
The revised deal, which revives a proposal that stalled in May, authorizes up to $1.5 billion in tax incentives and $22 billion in industrial revenue bonds. Developer Next Revolution Technologies LLC plans to redevelop the 217-acre site.
Supporters say the project could bring jobs and revenue to the financially struggling city. Opponents raised concerns about noise, water use, utility costs and the size of the tax breaks.
The agreement includes $7.5 million over 10 years for neighborhood improvements, a $250,000 environmental mitigation fund, water-conserving cooling technology and compliance with city noise regulations.