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Festus Data Center Project Faces Political Uncertainty Amid Recall Petitions

Festus residents submitted recall petitions targeting Mayor Sam Richards and three council members following the city's approval of a large-scale data center project.

By Colin Percy · May 20, 2026

Opponents of a proposed large-scale data center in Festus have officially filed recall petitions targeting Mayor Sam Richards and three city council members, David Boyer, Kevin Dennis, and Mike Cook. The recall effort stems from the council's March 3 vote to approve a project proposed by CRG, the development arm of Clayco, which drew significant community pushback regarding noise, traffic, and high utility consumption.

City Clerk Amy Goff has begun the 30-day verification process for the submitted signatures. Meanwhile, Chuck Hatfield, an attorney representing the four targeted officials, argues the petitions should be rejected for failing to adequately state grounds for removal under state law. This movement follows a similar effort in April that successfully defeated reelection bids for four other council members.

Companies mentioned

general contractor

CRG Construction LLC

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