Amid data center speculation, North Pekin planners table former AMC theaters’ rezoning
The North Pekin Planning and Zoning Commission voted to table a discussion on rezoning the former AMC theaters from commercial to light industrial. Residents voiced strong opposition to a potential data center, though the property owner and village attorney stated no such plans exist. The commission will revisit the rezoning in July.
The North Pekin Planning and Zoning Commission recently voted 5-3 to table a discussion on rezoning the former AMC Pekin 14 theaters from commercial to light industrial use. During the meeting, residents packed the room and expressed significant concerns about the potential for a data center to be developed on the site.
Despite rumors circulating on Facebook, both property owner Jeff Agan and village attorney William Anderson repeatedly assured the public that a data center is not in their plans and has not been applied for. Residents, including Kelly Sonderman, specifically asked if the chosen zoning could explicitly prohibit data centers. Agan explained he is seeking the light industrial rezoning because the property, with its removed theater equipment, can no longer sustain a retail or entertainment venue. The commission plans to revisit the rezoning discussion at its July meeting.