Christian County Board discusses proposed data center amid public concerns
A proposed data center development by Eagle Rock Partners dominated a Christian County Board meeting, drawing significant public concern. Residents and board members raised questions about water usage, environmental impacts, property values, and the county's rural character. The project is currently in early stages, with no formal applications yet submitted.
The Christian County Board recently held a meeting in Taylorville, Illinois, where a proposed data center development by Eagle Rock Partners dominated nearly two hours of discussion. Residents packed the high school cafeteria to voice strong concerns about the project's potential impacts on water usage, environmental resources, property values, traffic, noise, and the rural character of Christian County. Board Chairman Bryan Sharp emphasized the early stage of the project, stating that the meeting aimed to provide information and separate facts from speculation before any formal applications are considered.
Ken Loeber, a representative for Eagle Rock Partners, addressed questions regarding the proposed 10-building campus. He clarified that the facility would use a closed-loop cooling system requiring an initial fill of approximately one million gallons but no ongoing water replenishment for cooling. Daily water consumption would primarily be for employee needs, estimated at 20,000 gallons for up to 750 employees, sourced from wells or potentially municipal systems. Loeber also projected significant economic benefits, including around 500 permanent jobs, 1,000 construction jobs, and an estimated $85 million annually in property tax revenue from a fully developed campus.
Despite the potential benefits, public and board concerns persisted. Residents particularly focused on the long-term sustainability of local aquifers, the impact on private well owners, and the effect on property values for nearby homes and farms. Speakers underscored Christian County's agricultural identity and natural beauty, questioning if a large industrial development aligns with the community's vision. Noise, lighting, traffic, and comprehensive environmental impacts were also key discussion points. Officials acknowledged the need for thorough review and public input, with discussions even including a potential visit to an existing data center, to be coordinated by the Christian County Economic Development Corporation. No formal applications for zoning or development have yet been submitted.