Galesburg council fast-tracks 180-day data center moratorium, could later impose limit or ban

The Galesburg City Council voted unanimously to enact a 180-day moratorium on data center development, prohibiting the city from accepting or approving any related permits until April 3, 2027. City Manager Eric Hanson stated that the city has not yet received any data center applications, and the moratorium will allow officials time to assess the infrastructure, energy, environmental, and waste demands of such facilities before developing thorough regulations.

The council fast-tracked the moratorium ordinance, moving it from a first reading to a second reading, with a 6-1 vote, followed by a 7-0 approval. Ward Two Council Member Wendel Hunigan cast the sole dissenting vote on the fast-tracking motion, but later joined the unanimous approval of the moratorium itself. Hanson noted that the 180-day period was a legal recommendation, aiming to establish a plan before any applications arrive.

Ward Seven Council Member Steve Cheesman expressed skepticism about data centers, stating, "Everything that I've read so far shows that this is not a good idea." During public comment, Galesburg resident Marian Spurgeon urged the council to consider a three-year moratorium, questioning the rationale behind the shorter 180-day period and encouraging community education on data centers in both Galesburg and Knox County.