Heated moments in Joliet City Council meeting as data center approved

Name: Heated moments in Joliet City Council meeting as data center approved
Uploaded: 2026-03-20T02:12:28.000Z
Duration: 1 min 29 s
Description: The Joliet City Council approved a proposal to build a large data center, which is expected to become the largest in Illinois, despite heated public opposition. Residents expressed concerns about water depletion, increased utility bills, and noise, while the city anticipates significant property tax revenue and new jobs.

News Clip1:29FOX 32 Chicago·Joliet, Will County, IL·3/20/2026

The Joliet City Council approved a proposal to build a large data center, which is expected to become the largest in Illinois, despite heated public opposition. Residents expressed concerns about water depletion, increased utility bills, and noise, while the city anticipates significant property tax revenue and new jobs.

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Gov: Joliet City Council

The Joliet City Council approved a proposal to construct a massive data center near Roellwell and Bernard roads, a decision made during a heated meeting where a member of the public was escorted out by police.

The project, slated for its first building in 2028, is planned in phases to include up to 24 buildings upon completion, making it the largest data center in Illinois. Opponents voiced deep concerns that the facility would deplete Joliet's underground water sources, increase utility bills, and generate significant noise. However, city officials project the data center will generate billions of dollars in property tax revenue and create 700 full-time jobs.