One more step needed in Pekin's decline of a data center project

The City of Pekin has decided to no longer pursue building a data center in the community. Mayor Mary Burress announced the decision at a city council meeting, which was met with thunderous applause from the audience. The council is expected to vote to officially end the proposed agreement with data center developer Western Hospitality Partners at its next meeting. The planned town hall meeting on the project has been canceled. Burress said the decision was difficult but the data center proposal had created too much uncertainty and division in the community. Some council members, including Rick Hilst and Peg Phillips, had previously announced their opposition to the project. Burress addressed accusations of payoffs and backroom deals, stating that city officials care deeply about Pekin and work to act in the best interests of residents.