One-year ban on new data center construction in Chicago proposed by Mayor Johnson

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has introduced a proposal for a one-year moratorium on new data center construction within the city. The mayor's office states this pause is intended to provide his newly formed Data Centers Task Force with time to formulate new regulations addressing critical issues such as zoning, water and power consumption, and the overall quality of life for Chicago residents.

In a statement, Mayor Johnson affirmed, "Chicago is open for business, but we are not for sale. We welcome innovation, investment, and the jobs and opportunities that come with it, but growth must be done responsibly and in a way that protects the health, safety and quality of life of Chicago residents." This initiative follows similar regulatory efforts in suburban areas, such as Aurora, which recently saw a six-month moratorium expire, leading to new local regulations on data center development.

Concurrently, 34th Ward Alderman William Conway has also put forth separate proposals for data center regulations, suggesting bans in specific city areas and a framework for community accountability, expressing a desire for more immediate action. Consumer advocacy groups, including the Citizens Utility Board, have also voiced concerns, linking the proliferation of data centers in Illinois to rising ComEd utility bills, while the Midwest Data Center Coalition has been contacted for their perspective on the proposed moratorium.