WCBU: Data center will not be built in Pekin

The City of Pekin, Illinois has decided to end its proposed agreement with data center developer Western Hospitality Partners. Mayor Mary Burress announced the decision on March 9, stating that the project created too much uncertainty and division within the community. The Pekin City Council is expected to vote to legally terminate the agreement at its next meeting on March 23. The proposed data center would have been built on a portion of the 1,000-acre Lutticken Farm property purchased by the city for $14 million. The project faced vigorous opposition from residents and local groups, who raised concerns about noise pollution, environmental impacts, higher energy costs, and water supply issues. Several council members, including Rick Hilst, Peg Phillips, Dave Nutter, and Jake Fletcher, had announced their opposition to the project. With the lack of council support, the project was effectively dead. Burress said she gathered input from the community, council, and city staff before making the "difficult decision." She also addressed accusations of payoffs and backroom deals, stating that city officials work to act in the best interest of residents. The town hall meeting on the data center project scheduled for March 24 has been canceled.