Blue Island residents speak out against possible data center, mayor says comments are premature

Blue Island residents expressed strong opposition to a potential data center development at the former MetroSouth hospital site during a recent City Council meeting. Marie Mindeman, a long-time resident, highlighted concerns about industrial, thermal, and audio pollution, as well as the potential negative impact on property values. She urged city officials to reject the proposal, emphasizing that the community needs healthcare, not a data center. City Administrator Thomas Wogan announced that Builders Capital, the new owners and former financial backers of the site, intend to demolish the existing building and construct a data center. However, Mayor Fred Bilotto assured residents that no formal proposal has been submitted to the city. He reiterated that any such project would undergo a transparent process, including the requirement for a special-use permit. Residents voiced fears regarding heavy water and energy consumption, risks to drinking water and Lake Michigan, increased utility costs, and limited job creation. Some even indicated they would consider moving if the data center were built. Aldermen Joshua Roll and Bill Fahrenwald echoed residents' concerns, suggesting the city needs a more cohesive development plan to encourage healthcare and affordable housing, and that industrial areas would be more suitable for a data center. Both officials and Treasurer Nancy Rita thanked residents for their input.