Joliet council delays vote on data centre project after marathon hearing

The Joliet City Council adjourned a marathon public hearing on a proposed 795-acre data center campus without voting on the project. The Joliet Technology Center, being developed by Hillwood Investment Properties and PowerHouse Data Centers, is expected to generate between 7,000 and 10,000 construction jobs over seven years. Construction union representatives voiced support for the project, calling it a significant opportunity for local trades. However, more than 150 residents spoke during the hearing, with the majority urging the council to reject the project. Concerns focused on the facility's expected water and energy use, as well as land use and noise impacts. A petition with over 4,700 signatures opposing the development was presented to the council. The council is scheduled to reconvene on Thursday at 5 p.m. to continue deliberations on the proposal. City officials noted that under state law, the council could not continue meeting past midnight, as Illinois voters were heading to the polls for the primary election on March 17.