Lawmaker says Grayslake mega data center 'should not proceed' without answers on power, water and noise

Illinois State Representative Daniel Didech has expressed significant concerns regarding the T5 @ Chicago IV data center campus, approved by the Grayslake Village Board in 2024 and 2025. Didech stated the project "should not proceed" unless the Village of Grayslake and T5 Data Centers can provide concrete evidence that it will not negatively impact residents' energy costs, water quality, noise levels, or the ecological health of the area, particularly for neighborhoods in Mundelein. He emphasized the need for transparency and meaningful community engagement, criticizing the Village's decision to limit public comment.

The controversy escalated with a lawsuit filed by Lake County residents and the Preservation of Community Well-being Collective LLC against the Village of Grayslake, T5 Data Centers, LLC, and Alter Asset Management Company. The suit challenges the project's approvals and seeks to prevent further permits. Amidst growing public outcry, a planned extended public comment session for August 20 was postponed due to safety concerns stemming from threatening social media comments directed at the Village Board and officials.

Didech plans to advocate for the POWER Act in the upcoming General Assembly session, legislation designed to ensure transparency regarding data center water and electricity consumption and promote clean energy planning. The T5 @ Chicago IV campus, part of the 641-acre Cornerstone development, is approved for up to 472 acres of development, over 10 million square feet of buildings, and an electrical demand of approximately 1.55 gigawatts. An initial status hearing for the lawsuit is set for October 30.