Moratorium on data centers extended by Normal Town Council
The Normal Town Council has extended its moratorium on data centers until May 31, 2027. This decision provides the town with more time to gather information, assess state actions, and align with the City of Bloomington's regulations before making a final recommendation on data center rules.
The Normal Town Council voted to extend its moratorium on data center development through May 31, 2027. Mayor Chris Koos stated the town's desire to "be best" rather than "first" in regulating data centers. The initial moratorium was set to expire in November, but city officials deemed this insufficient time for a comprehensive decision.
Normal City Manager Pamela Reece explained that the extension is necessary because the town is not yet prepared to make recommendations on data center regulations. Assistant City Manager Brian Day added that the extra time would allow the Town of Normal to observe potential actions by the state government, preventing the need to craft regulations that might conflict with future state-level policies. The council also aims to align its regulations with those of the neighboring City of Bloomington. Council member Karyn Smith expressed caution regarding new technology, preferring to wait for more efficient and smaller solutions to address citizen concerns.
The ordinance to extend the moratorium was approved by all council members except Andy Byars.