Data center concerns put Morgan County Commission on back foot
Morgan County residents confronted the County Commission, expressing strong opposition and concerns about transparency regarding potential data center development, despite a previously enacted six-month moratorium. Discussions at the meeting were contentious, with residents demanding answers on future data center plans and the progress of a study meant to establish county guidelines. A related issue involves the city of Waverly reviewing its water contract due to a CyrusOne data center in neighboring Sangamon County planning to purchase water from the Apple Creek Water Cooperative.
Morgan County residents clashed with the County Commission at a recent meeting, questioning transparency and expressing strong opposition to potential data center construction. The 22-minute meeting included shouting and cursing, as constituents, led by figures like Joseph Newingham, pressed Commissioners Donny "Racer" Wood and Chairman Michael Wankel for answers on data center plans.
Commissioner Wood denied any data center company had approached the county. However, Newingham highlighted that the Morgan County Republican Club had advertised an upcoming meeting where Wood and Wankel were scheduled to speak about "data center construction." Club President Ryan Zipprich stated that data centers were a topic of curiosity for members, leading to the advertisement. Republican candidate Greg Hacker, also advertised, clarified he would only speak about his candidacy.
Residents reiterated their strong disapproval of data center development in the county. In April, Commissioner Michael Woods successfully pushed for a six-month moratorium on data centers to allow for a study and the implementation of county guidelines. Despite this, residents voiced frustration that discussions on organizing this study had not been placed on the commission's agenda, leading to accusations of a lack of transparency and public engagement.
Adding to the local concerns, resident Kim Still referenced CyrusOne's plans to purchase water from the Apple Creek Water Cooperative for a data center across the county line in Sangamon County, prompting the city of Waverly to review its water contract. Residents demand that elected officials research and address data center issues proactively, emphasizing the need for public, transparent conversations.