Normal Town Council extends data center moratorium, approves museum expansion
Normal's town council voted 6-1 to extend its data center moratorium until May 31, 2027, preventing new applications and permits. The extension is intended to allow future regulations to align with potential state-level actions, driven by concerns over utility use and water consumption.
The Normal Town Council voted 6-1 on Monday night to extend its data center moratorium until May 31, 2027. This extension halts all new applications, processing, approval, and issuance of permits for data centers in the town.
This decision follows an initial six-month moratorium passed earlier in the year. Council Member Karyn Smith indicated her support for looking to the state for action, citing concerns about utility use and water consumption. City Manager Pamela Reece expressed hope that the extension would allow Normal's future regulations to align with any potential state-level conversations or actions by the Illinois General Assembly regarding data centers. Mayor Chris Koos emphasized that Normal's actions should mirror those of Bloomington, though Bloomington's plans for a similar pause are currently unknown.
Town staff had been gathering information during the initial moratorium, visiting other communities with data centers, reviewing ordinances, and consulting with local leaders. Council Member Andy Byars cast the sole dissenting vote but did not provide a reason.