Morris Council Hears Concerns From Public Regarding Future Possible Data Center Project
Over 100 community members attended a contentious Morris City Council meeting to voice opposition to a proposed data center project near Route 6 and Gun Club Road. Concerns included well water usage and potential negative impacts on future businesses. Residents plan to attend a July 20th meeting and discussed voting out council members.
The Morris City Council held a contentious meeting where over 100 community members expressed their opposition to a proposed data center project. Despite no specific agenda items concerning the data center, more than 20 individuals spoke during a 75-minute public comment session, primarily voicing concerns about the project's potential impact on local well water and the possibility of deterring new businesses.
Morris Mayor Chris Brown reiterated his earlier statement to WCSJ that there are currently no identified "end users" for the proposed facility, which is slated for the area of Route 6 and Gun Club Road. While a few individuals supported the project, the majority opposed it.
Residents, including Kathy Maddox, raised concerns about future elections and the accountability of the council. Alderman Jake Duvick and Alderman Alex Clubb were also mentioned in exchanges with residents. Attendees indicated they expect even more people at the next meeting on July 20th, with some speakers explicitly discussing voting council members out of office.