Today: Data center debates shape local communities; Missouri may fund WIC amid federal uncertainty; Lambert Airport launches a major facility project. Plus, news on regional leadership changes, redevelopment zones, local dining updates, and highlights from sports and community events across St. Louis.

MAIN STORY

Data Center Debate Grows

The debate over data centers continues to intensify in the St. Louis area, stretching from St. Louis to St. Charles. The discussion centers on the facilities’ appropriate size, design, and impact on suburban character.

Some residents have voiced concerns that original data center designs are too plain and too tall for their neighborhoods. Supporters argue that the projects stimulate economic growth, while critics worry about changes to community aesthetics and potential environmental effects. The debate highlights the complexity of balancing technological expansion with local values.

Officials expect additional proposals in the coming months, with more public meetings scheduled. For more context on the ongoing debate, visit this detailed overview of data centers in the St. Louis area.

AROUND TOWN

Greater St. Louis Inc. has appointed Ron Kitchens as its new CEO, effective early November. Kitchens, formerly president and CEO of the Wichita Falls Chamber, brings more than 30 years of economic development experience in several states, including Missouri. He is a graduate of Missouri State University and previously worked for U.S. Sen. John Danforth. Kitchens succeeds interim CEO Dustin Allison, who stepped in after December 2024, as the organization continues efforts to boost regional growth.

St. Louis will renew its “blight” classification for the Cortex district and surrounding area for another five years. The Board of Aldermen’s Housing, Urban Development, and Zoning Committee voted Tuesday to advance Board Bill 68, first adopted in 2006, which preserves redevelopment tools like eminent domain and tax-increment financing for Cortex West Redevelopment Corp. While supporters point to $1.33 billion in investment since the designation, dissent emerged over equitable distribution of redevelopment incentives citywide. Read more about the Cortex redevelopment.

Bormio, a new Alpine-inspired restaurant in St. Peter’s, has expanded from aperitivo snacks to a full dinner menu after a trademark-driven rebrand. Formerly Bacaro, the restaurant, which opened in 2024 behind Noto Italian Restaurant (5105 Westwood Drive), now serves dishes like mini sourdough waffles topped with caviar, described by chef and co-owner Wayne Sieve as a unique, textured take on the delicacy. Bormio aims to become a full-service dining destination in the St. Charles area view menu details.

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Missouri Eyes State Funds for WIC

Missouri Budget Director Dan Haug said the state may use its own funds to keep the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) running in the event of a federal government shutdown. WIC supports more than 6 million low-income mothers and young children nationwide.

The federal WIC program could run out of money within two weeks if no agreement is reached in Congress. Missouri officials are preparing contingency plans to ensure that families continue to receive food assistance and nutrition support. For more information, see the details on the WIC funding situation.

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Lambert Airport Breaks Ground

St. Louis Lambert International Airport will break ground Monday on a new $114.9 million airfield maintenance and snow removal equipment facility. The project is the first in the airport’s broader West Airfield Program.

The 285,000-square-foot complex is slated for completion in late 2027, consolidating critical airfield operations. Funding includes a $20 million Federal Aviation Administration grant and $4.67 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Airport officials emphasize these upgrades are needed regardless of future terminal decisions. After this facility’s completion, construction will begin on a new West Deicing Pad. Read more about the project’s scope and background here.

QUICK HITS

The story of motivational speaker John O’Leary, “Soul on Fire,” was filmed almost entirely at nine St. Louis locations, including Maplewood’s Saratoga Lanes, in November 2023.

Eureka High School improved to 5-1 with a 28-7 road win over Rockwood Summit, fueled by Brandon Webb and Curtis Harris' combined 225 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

Andy’s Seasoning Inc. will hold its annual Community Wellness Fair, offering free health screenings, vaccines, and family activities at its St. Louis headquarters on October 9, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

St. Louis City SC and rapper Smino have launched a streetwear line, with all proceeds directed to tornado relief efforts in the St. Louis area.

St. Louis Realtors released a 74-page plan calling for expanded credit access, down payment assistance, and targeted education programs to increase Black homeownership and address persistent lending disparities in St. Louis and St. Louis County.