Illinois Should Welcome Data Centers While Protecting Communities
Jason Ashmore, mayor of Sesser and secretary-treasurer of Teamsters Local 50, argues that Illinois should welcome responsible data center development while giving communities a meaningful role and protecting energy and water resources. He also calls for developers to pay for needed infrastructure and ensure union workers share in the jobs and economic benefits.
Jason Ashmore, the mayor of Sesser and secretary-treasurer of Teamsters Local 50, argues that Illinois can pursue data center investment without ignoring community concerns. He says developers should provide clear information, involve residents before construction, protect local resources and cover the infrastructure costs associated with increased energy demand.
Ashmore cites projected electricity needs, grid modernization and thousands of construction jobs tied to data center projects as potential benefits for Illinois. He also points to Meta’s workforce-training initiatives and partnership with North America’s Building Trades Unions as examples of how data center growth could create career opportunities for union workers while helping Illinois compete in artificial intelligence and advanced technology.