Bloomington residents put questions on data centers, grocery tax, international weapons to Nov. vote
Bloomington Township residents unanimously voted for an advisory measure to place a moratorium on large-scale data centers on the November ballot. This action follows the Bloomington City Council's previous six-month moratorium, but residents seek a more permanent and regulated approach due to concerns about water, electricity rates, and air quality. The vote aims to pressure local and state officials to address these issues.
Residents of the City of Bloomington Township overwhelmingly voted for an advisory measure to include a moratorium on large-scale data centers and a repeal of the city's 1% grocery tax on the November ballot. These measures, along with a proposition to ban international weapons transfers, will be certified by township officials and presented to voters.
While the ballot measures are non-binding, petitioners like Zach Gittrich emphasize their importance in conveying public sentiment to elected officials, particularly as many may be facing re-election. Residents expressed deep concerns regarding data centers' potential strain on resources like water and electricity, as well as the absence of adequate regulations to protect the community from rising electric rates or environmental impacts.
Township clerk Leslie Yocum noted that the Bloomington City Council had already enacted a six-month moratorium on large data centers in May. However, activists such as Sonny Garcia, Central Illinois outreach coordinator for Faith in Place, voiced distrust in officials, fearing a reversal of the moratorium once its term expires. City Council member Mollie Ward encouraged residents to engage directly with the city council at public meetings to ensure their voices are heard and to influence decision-making.